Jack Chabot

Jack Howard Chabot, 97, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026. Born on April 24, 1929, in Portsmouth, Ohio, Jack was the son of Howard and Gertrude Chabot. He attended Portsmouth City Schools before continuing his education at the University of Miami.

In 1958, Jack married the love of his life, Carolyn Chabot. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, hard work, and generosity, sharing 63 wonderful years of marriage until Carolyn's passing in 2021.

Jack was a visionary entrepreneur whose career spanned real estate, hospitality, and the restaurant industry. He began his career in real estate before becoming one of the principals of Restaurant Administration Corporation, the parent company of Rax Roast Beef, Ponderosa Steakhouse, and Burger Chef Restaurants. In the late 1970s, he partnered with Dave Thomas, investing in the growing Wendy's restaurant chain and ultimately owning the Wendy's franchises throughout the state of Minnesota and western Pennsylvania. He later developed and owned a successful chain of Franklin Inn hotels throughout northern and central New Jersey. His business interests were managed through the Jack H. Chabot Corporation, reflecting a lifetime of entrepreneurial achievement and leadership.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Jack believed strongly in giving back to his community. He devoted countless hours as one of the principal fundraisers for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, generously contributing his time, energy, and talents to support the arts in Central Ohio.

Jack embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid golfer, a devoted horse racing enthusiast, and a lifelong, passionate fan of the Cincinnati Reds. More than anything, he cherished time spent with his family and took great pride in watching future generations grow.

He is survived by his sons, Andy (Michelle) Chabot; Eric (Lucy) Chabot and by his beloved grandchildren, Elise Chabot and Jack Chabot. Preceded in death by his wife Carolyn and daughter Heidi.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday July 29th between 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. at Schoedinger Northeast, 1051 Johnstown Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230. A funeral service celebrating Jack's life will be held at Schoedinger Northeast the following morning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private.

Jack will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, generous heart, unwavering devotion to his family, and the lasting impact he made on those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and kindness will continue to inspire all who loved him.