Jack Mayer Obituary
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James Adams (Rich South)
June 12, 2025
You were one of the best teachers I ever had. You gave me confidence when I was unsure of myself and my talent. I'll never forget when you let me do spoken word in the cafeteria during a busy lunch.
The time you picked me after I auditioned with a sore throat and cold.
They day this kid in class played the piano and you just let me jump up there with him and preform infant of a class of about 60 high schoolers. You remained cucumber cool when we were "being kids" and got us focused.
You are 1 of a few lighthouses from my youth. Wish I got to know you more. I miss you and rest easy brother.
VeRita D Quinn
January 21, 2023
I still think about you often my friend, and miss you. I remember the fun times we had had you place in Michigan, for our "Mindless Weekends" with RS Staff; I remember the field trips I accompanied you on with your art class, and thank you for introducing me to so many things in the art world. I miss the Musicals you and your classes used to put on, and after you left, they stopped doing them. You impacted so many lives, and we are the richer for it. Gone too soon. Continue to rest in peace!
VeRita
Deborah Hardwick
January 21, 2023
Even before the nudge from Legacy-- Nancy P & I thought about you just these last few days--. Your passion for life, for others remains here on earth as your spirit soars above. Sending you positive energy-- keep on keeping on, Jack.
Deborah Hardwick
February 2, 2022
Today-- A prayer for your continued peace up in the heavens . . . your compassion for others & the arts were embraced by so many. Thinking of you on 2.2.2022 -- .
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VeRita Quinn
January 21, 2021
Always in my heart and mind. So many precious memories, and great times we had at your place. Great conversations about your love for the Arts, and our fight to keep them at RS, and being on the Committee to get that Auditorium built. I still feel it should be named in your honor. Continue to rest well my friend.
Minister VeRita D. Quinn
Lisa Duffy-Lewis
June 28, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. I have fond high school memories. He will be missed...
Blue Morning at the Treehouse on the Lake
Lisa
June 17, 2017
Was that meteor really you cartwheeling across the sky into Lake Michigan? It seemed so *you* (except for the big show happening when most everyone was asleep).
I think of you as
rain and I as parched earth cracked
beneath cloudless sky
The nearly 1300 blue bottles are safe with me, as well as "It" and a million artefacts. I would give anything to have you back. Remaining on the lookout for Always Every Color and the melody, at night, with you. Waiting for the five-minute warning...
Gary Hull
June 10, 2017
So sorry to hear of Jacks passing. We were neighbors in Sawyer and loved talking to Jack.. The whole Hull family sends there hearthfelt sympathies..
February 24, 2017
Sorry to hear of Jack's passing He was such a sweet person, dog lover, artist and pianist. - Pat Mc Carthy Bughman.
Joyce Miller
February 7, 2017
He was a great a teacher.
Mark & Gina Neumann
February 5, 2017
Joanne, Kathy and Family. So sorry to hear about Jacks passing. Our deepest condolences,
Kenneth Neumann jr
February 5, 2017
Joanne, Kathy, john, I am sorry to hear that Jack passed away. My deepest sympathies to you'r family. Jack made the world a better place and he will be missed.
Chris & Rochelle Schwalbe
February 4, 2017
I first met Mr Mayer at Rich South High School when he was trying so hard to convince me and my husband youngest daughter Morgan to sign up for his AP art class. That's when I knew this man had such a sweet and gentle soul. His convincing wasn't harsh and annoying but gentle and with just enough firmness that we knew it was with great care for his students. Then I come to find out that indirectly my two older children knew Mr Mayer. Not from having him as a teacher, but as one of the best teachers at Rich South. This is how well known and loved amongst the students he was. I also had the pleasure of helping Mr Mayer during the bread fund raising for the arts. His love for the arts was so real that even after Morgan graduated high school I continued to help him with the fund raising. Hearing of his death has saddened me and my family. Our hearts and prayers are with his family. My Gods face smile down on you. May God bring you peace and comfort. God rest Mr Mayer soul. We will miss him.
Mr and Mrs C. Schwalbe & Family
February 4, 2017
Even though I overlapped with Jack for only a few weeks at most in Sawyer, MI, his friendliness, responsibility, and artistry were always present in our community. We will miss him greatly. Sincerely, Susie LeFevre Hook
Nancy Young
February 4, 2017
Jack's neighbors and friends in Tower Hill Shorelands will miss him deeply.He was always willing to lend a helping hand to any of his neighbors. He was so talented artistically and musically and had such a terrific sense of humor and wit.Just being with him lifted your spirits. Our community won't be the same without him.
Nora Gahnstrom
February 3, 2017
Thank you, Jack, for the wonderful person you were and for the wonderful memories you have given us. Your heart always remained warm, open, and friendly. It was an honor to be your guests at the beach house, those days mean so much to us and we will always cherish those memories. Always missed, never forgotten. Love and prayers from Evert, Ulla, Anna, Sara, Nora and Dejan.
February 2, 2017
Joanne, Kathy and family
So sorry to hear the sad news.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bernice Mouroukas of Turtle Cove
Eva Gahnström
February 1, 2017
Joanne, John and Kathy, Im so sorry for your loss. Its sad that we didnt get the chance to talk about our memories.
Siv gutt Jack. (Sleep well)
Deborah Finato
January 31, 2017
You will all always be in my thoughts. Jack was part of a wonderful family. You are in my thoughts.
Amir Nouri
January 31, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. I have never met your brother, but I am sure he was a loving son, father, brother, and friend. My thoughts are with you.
January 31, 2017
Joanne, Kathy and family. Please accept our condolences for the loss of you son and brother. Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
Jeryl and Ron Smith
January 31, 2017
Joanne I am so sorry to hear of Jacks passing. There is no words to comfort you on a loss of a dear child. My prayers are to give you strength and in understanding. Love and prayers.
Yolanda Metcalf,
Hanover Park
Kelly Hock
January 31, 2017
Jack was always so full of life and very creative. I can still hear his laughter. I am so sorry for your loss.
N A
January 30, 2017
To Jack's family and friends. My condolences go out to each of you. May you all cherish your memory of him and may you all find comfort from God's word at Hosea 13:14.
Duane Gentner
January 30, 2017
Jack and my daughter, Lisa, were in the music programs at Conant HS. They have stayed close friends for more than 40 years. Jack was a very talented, kind and generous gentleman. His legacy is found in all the people who loved and respected him. He will always be remembered.
Dr Don and Kathy Grossnickle
January 30, 2017
Joanne and family. Very sorry to hear of your loss. Blessings for peace.
Kathy Artman-Ripoli
January 30, 2017
Mrs. Mayer,
I am so sorry for your loss. Jack was a great guy. Loved being his friend from grade school through high school. He even played at my wedding. He will be missed.
Love and prayers.
Stevon Burrell
January 30, 2017
Jack Mayer, where to start. I was kid that hid in the shadows and you helped me get my voice through the arts, through song, and through stage. I cry as I write this because I remember your help with my senior year "That's Not My Name" piece of which I hit head-on my annoyance with racial slurs in our high school hallways. That was so long ago, yet is so fresh in my mind. Thank you Jack. Rest in power and I hope you continue to guide all of us students who still love and hold you dear.
Andres Flores
January 30, 2017
Your light lives on through your legacy, good sir.
I only knew of you through the mention of name, but your mention was always enough to light the remembrance of the better times I had with my own brother, which are few and far between. I thank you for that, for impressing upon John enough that your light would shine in places you never knew. A brother's love is always there, no matter how bad things get, and I felt that every time I heard John talk about you.
January 29, 2017
So sorry to hear about jack's passing- what a great student and role model for the younger kids-I am in phoenix and just heard about this terrible accident from oldest daughter sloane- say hi to joanne-thoughts and prayers are with you ! Coach redlinger
Kiana Hughes
January 29, 2017
I'll never forget the way Jack Mayer took a chance on a diverse group of students to help us create an improv acting group called Fusion where we performed skits that addressed issues in diversity, racism, sexism and stereotypes. I feel so blessed to have reconnected with him on FB in recent years and I'm so sad to hear of his passing. There are some teachers that leave an indelible mark on their students' lives and he was one of them. Thank you for taking us on the journey to Oz and God bless you on your journey "Home".
One of my happiest moments.
Taylor Doyal
January 29, 2017
Mr. Mayer,
You believed in my artistry when little to no one did. I appreciate your encouragement. You + art helped me through high school. I literally thought of you this week.. Our souls are in tune.. Rest Peacefully.
-Taylor Doyal
Taylor Doyal
January 29, 2017
Taylor Doyal
January 29, 2017
January 29, 2017
The news of Jack's passing has saddened me immensely. Jack and I met in high school chemistry, where we discovered our mutual love of "Monty Python" and (at least on my part) a dislike of chemistry. We also had at least one English class together -- and it makes me smile to recall our science fiction video that required green makeup and inhaling helium as our special effects.
We reconnected on Facebook in recent years and I admired his art, his music, dog, and goats.
When I think of Jack, I think of his innate kindness and his sense of humor.
My deepest condolences to his mother and the rest of his family.
Debra Stanek
Haniya Smith
January 29, 2017
Me. Mayer was an amazing teacher and great person. He was in charge of Fusion at Rich South when I joined. He taught us so much!
MIkey Peterson
January 29, 2017
I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jack Mayer. He was my choir director at Rich South High School from 1988-1992. If it wasn't for his mentorship I highly doubt I'd be on the road I'm on today. When I teach, perform, or make art I think of him often. He saw something in a shy misfit kid from the south suburbs of Chicago, shedding a light on his talents, self-worth, and confidence - and I know I'm not the only one. I will miss him greatly, but will always carry his wisdom and kindness, passing it along to the budding artists that I now teach.
-Mikey Peterson
Sally Baker
January 29, 2017
Joanne,
I can't find the words I so badly need to say to you. You are such a dear friend and my heart is saddened by your loss. Jack was a wonderful son. All of us who knew him, loved him. My love goes out to your whole family but a special prayer for strength is there for you.
With so much love.
January 29, 2017
We are deeply saddened by Jack's death. He has been a great friend and a wonderful person to know. We are so glad to have recently spent time with him in our travels and will always miss him. Love to all of you.
K. Brown
January 29, 2017
I'd like to express my condolences to Mr. Mayer's family, and friends. He was my teacher at Rich South over twenty years ago. He was very tolerant, and patient with all the students. My prayers, and thoughts are for each of you that love him. Rest in perfect peace Mr. Mayer.
Kathy Dawson
January 29, 2017
So sorry to hear of Jack 's passing. I will always treasure one of his paintings that I have in my living room. I have fond memories working with you at Harlem High School & helping you with a couple of choir trips. We all had some great times & you will be missed.
Chris Riggle
January 29, 2017
Thank you Mr. Mayer. You were the best teacher ever. I'm so happy I got to chat with you recently.
January 29, 2017
I am so sad to hear of Jack's passing. He was such a great teacher, cowoker, and friend! Remembering the great times we all had at his beautiful home...We called them "The meeting of the minds!" RIP Jack! You will definitely be missed!
Bridget Stewart
Yesenia Angel
January 28, 2017
Rip Mr.Mayer.
I remember Always going to your art class. That was one of the classes that i enjoyed the most. It was obvious that you had a passion for what you taught. You made a great impact on me and I will never forget you. My condolences to yiur family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ninaa Edwards
January 28, 2017
Thank you for being one of the nicest teachers at the school.
Jackie Novak
January 28, 2017
I'll always remember you Mr. Mayer. You were seriously my favorite teacher.
I'm so sorry I never did make it out to visit so our dogs could play on the beach. I was really looking forward to catching up & hanging out. I'll miss you Jack..
Amy and Kevin Jensen
January 28, 2017
Dear Jack
Kevin and I are so sad to hear you have left us. Thank you for your music, your art, your devotion as a teacher and being an amazing kind human being. You will be so missed. We are so lucky to have known you and shared such fond memories with you. Godspeed good man
VeRita Quinn
January 28, 2017
Remembering our trip to the Art Institute with your class. So glad you invited me to chaperone. Thank you for introducing me to Monet! Never forget you my friend!
Dominique Tolbert
January 28, 2017
If it wasn't for you... I would not have the love for art that I have now. Rest in heaven :(
Eddie Meeks III
January 28, 2017
Wow, sadden to hear of the death of a GREAT man. I will NEVER forget my days at Rich South and Mr. Mayer as the teacher who gave me the role of Scrooge in the musical "Christmas is Comin' Uptown" and other productions. I will never forget him making a model of the home he built. May this great man rest in peace. Class of 94'
Jeannie Schusler
January 28, 2017
Jack was an extraordinary person. I taught with him many years ago. He made such an impression on me, and I never forgot him. He was so talented! I am so sorry he is gone!
Leslie Nenoff-Smith
January 28, 2017
I was shocked and saddened by the passing of Jack. What a wonderful and talented person. His musical and artistic talents where surpassed by none. His humor contagious.
We were just reminiscing about him the other day. Many years ago, Jack and one of his friends showed up at our campsite in the dunes, we were all laughing so loud the rangers showed up and told them they had to get their own campsite and leave ours.
He will be remembered fondly and often.
Rebecca Davidsmeier
January 28, 2017
THE best teacher ever. So sorry to hear of your loss, heaven's gain.
Madonna Maze
January 28, 2017
The last time I saw Jack was at his nephew, David's wedding. We were sitting at the "cool table" enjoying the stories and conversations and so much laughter! I always enjoyed his company. The entire Mayer family is talented, productive, entertaining, and caring! What a treasure Jack was. I am honored to have known him.
My heart goes out to Jack's family and friends.
January 28, 2017
I was very sorry to hear of Jack's passing. I have fond memories of our childhood friendship, attending Lakeview Elementary, and having lots of fun during and after school. In 4th grade, he and I showed up for the first day of school with identical long pants on (I don't think we'd seen each other all summer). The pants had vertical red, white, and blue stripes, and as I recall, he told me that he got his pair out of state (Kentucky?), and I told him that I got mine in Tennessee. On the second day of school, we both showed up with identical pants once again. This time, they had vertical navy blue and gold vertical stripes. And again, he had gotten his out of state and I had gotten mine in Tennessee. Boy, did we laugh.
To Jack's mother, Joanne - I'm very sorry for your loss. You and Jack were always very kind to me, and you both had a great sense of humor.
Sincerely,
Jeff Johnson
Matt Nordquist
January 28, 2017
I remember you playing the piano at my mothers house back in 1976
Debbie Zimmer
January 28, 2017
So sorry to hear this. He was a great guy. One of the first people who friended me at Keeneyville Bible Church. Still have one of his paintings on my wall.
Nancy Hanselman Navratil
January 28, 2017
I have completely lost touch with John but have great memories of our days right out of college. So sorry for his loss but glad that we know he is in the presence of Jesus. Praying for all of you as you process this great loss.
Jim Bolognani
January 28, 2017
Such a good, kind, talented man. Jack always had a good heart. He has touched many lives and will be missed by his students and colleagues Rest in peace Jack. Good deeds in your honor!
Pam Wilson
January 28, 2017
Jackie, those who loved you are grieving today. Too sudden and too soon has been your passing and I'm not ready. I'm glad that Jesus was ready and bundled you into His loving arms. My love and prayers for your mom, Kathy, John, Mary and David.
Pam Martin
January 27, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. Jack was a talented and loving man.
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370 Division Dr., Sugar Grove, IL 60554
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