I note that there is hardly a word in this Guest Book about Jack as a naval officer.  Too bad, as this was a significant part of his life. He had seven sea commands, something that was very rare then and even more unusual today.  Jack knew how to command; he was a great leader.
I met Jack in 1966 off the coast of Vietnam when he was commodore of the Amphibious Ready Group.  I was assigned to his staff and watched him operate through two deployments.  He was aware of every detail, thorough, careful, sensitive to others, yet maintained a dry sense of humor.  He style engendered deep respect from all who worked for him or around him.
I learned many lessons of leadership from Jack.  One of his techniques was to ask questions, legitimate questions about each person's job.  If one had not covered the bases it was embarrassing to have to report this, so one made sure to do what was required.
Another important lesson was not to trust oneself, when one was in charge, with any important communication.  Always have someone else read your work before it goes out to see how another reader might react.  This lesson has stayed with me in every aspect of my life.
Jack was a decent man, responsible, kind, unassuming, and honest.  In a perfect world he would have been selected for admiral.  He will be sorely missed.

Jan and Chris,
So many years and so many memories. I have wonderful memories of being together in the La Mesa house, just up the hill from mine. It was a safe haven, a place of security. I remember the sadness of long deployments and the joyous homecomings. He always included me in anything going on and took us everywhere. He was the model of kindness. He loved you both very much.
Enjoy the memories.
Love and hugs,

Cyndi Haberlein Sutton
San Diego

Jack was such a friendly, warm person. He made me feel like part of the family when my own family was far away. He just seemed to get the maximum enjoyment out of everything, whether it was music, stories, or his family and friends. I'm glad he had such a peaceful ending surrounded by beloved people and animal friends.

Jack will be missed by all who knew him. He has gone to a better place. He is truly one who will hear those words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Thank you, Donna for all the church activities you brought Jack to, he was a joy to know at church.

To me Jack embodied the concept of being of service to others.  Such a self-less person.  We are all better people for having known you!

Jack was such a good example to all the Sleepy Hollow UMC family. He faithfully came to church, sang and loved the music and always took communion. 
Once I told him how nice he looked. He told me he really liked clothes. He was always in a tie and coat. Though 90 plus, he played the innkeeper at our nativity outreach. He was engaged with life to the end. We will miss him but will see him again. Mary Ann Cochran, Lt Col, USAF Retired.

Jan - I have some wonderful memories of your Dad puttering around your house in the 1970's.  Having lost my Dad at a young age, I loved watching your Dad fuss over you and take care of you.  I remember him checking your car's oil and generally making sure you were safe and well.  He was a wonderful Dad and I know you will miss him!!

My dad was a great man and a great dad. He had a good last day. He went to bed Saturday night, December 15th fully expecting to get up and attend church Sunday morning. He never woke up. When I spoke to him that night he said he felt very fortunate. He said I'm sittiing here in my rocking chair beside the Chrismas tree, Donna (his daughter-in-law) was with him and he said he felt so lucky she was there, her wonderful dog Shiloh was there and all the kitties. Both my brother, Chris, and I spoke to him that night. He told us he loved us and we told him we loved him. He was kind and generous. My cousin told me he was the kindest person she ever knew.He was a great dad and we miss him but what wonderful memories we have of him.

What a generous, intelligent, fine, honorable man and great dad Jack was! He showed us how to live and how to die. He will be missed terribly and remembered fondly by all who knew him.

I will miss Jack's friendly smile and "Hello" every Sunday as I returned to my seat following communion.  What a blessing he has been to me.  May the peace of the Lord be with each of his loved ones.  Lavera Hamidi

OBITUARY

John Dower Westervelt

March 30, 1919 – December 16, 2012

Murphy Funeral Homes

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