JACK WARREN HESEMEYER

Jack Warren Hesemeyer Sept. 12, 1920 - Nov. 7, 2010 Born in Oakland, California, Jack was the only child of Otto and Florence Hesemeyer. He graduated from Alameda High School and attended University of Nevada, but left college to join the Navy after Pearl Harbor and was assigned to PBY patrol flights in the Aleutians. After the war he met and married Elaine Knudsen. They celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary before Elaine predeceased Jack in 1996. They had one son, Jeffrey. Jack began his professional career and became a journeyman plumber. While working in Humboldt County CA, the serene beauty of the redwoods captured his spirit and he decided to become a California State Park Ranger. From Humboldt Redwoods to the Anza Borrego Desert State Park in southern California, he devoted 27 years to the Parks. At his retirement in 1981 he was manager of the Marin County State Parks. Angel Island, China Camp, Stinson Beach, Mt. Tamalpias to mention a few, were all special to him as well as the State Historic Ships at Hyde Street Pier in San Francisco. Jack Hesemeyer believed in and dedicated his life to the preservation of California's natural and historic treasures. In 1998 Jack married long time family friend Gunilla Singelmann. They spent 12 wonderful years together, traveling and enjoying their home and garden in Novato. Jack's 90th birthday was celebrated with friends and family. Grandson Wyatt entertained with live music, Granddaughter Paloma and husband Leif flew in from Minneapolis, Aunt Carol and cousin Linda drove down from Eureka. Son Jeff and daughter-in-law Dianne, Carla, Rick and Wendy, Gunilla's children, many friends and neighbors gathered at his home to honor him. A cruise to see the Panama Canal was to be a final adventure. Jack returned home and spent time with his dog on the patio, drank his coffee with lots of cocoa and passed away in peace surrounded with love. Jack will be greatly missed by all who were touched by his life. There will be no memorial service. Jack Hesemeyer would appreciate your support of the Save The Redwoods League.