Eugene T. (Jack) Mouse

I met Jack in the 10th grade at Emporia High School in 1964, when I enrolled in the High School band under the direction of Orman Parker, who helped train many band members who became professional musicians in the 1950s and 1960s.

Jack was always the number one drummer after every fall and spring testing in the band. I was always the number two drummer. I was like my brother Bob; my brother was the number two drummer, and Roy “Speed” Burns was the number one drummer in the 1950s....

I’m so very sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. He was an amazing musician and teacher. I treasure the time I taught with Janice and Jack at Benedictine University.

Jack was my drum teacher through high school. He was a phenomenal teacher and I will be forever thankful for his guidance and inspiration.

Jack was truly one of a kind. An amazing talent, a detailed teacher, an entrepreneur with business acumen, a "people person," and a great storyteller. He and Janice built a highly respected jazz program at North Central College and provided enviable opportunities for our students, faculty, and community to hear and be touched by outstanding jazz music. We are forever grateful for him and his work, and know he will be playing some "other-worldy" great music in the heavens!

MOUSE was a joy to tour with. He was the first drummer I toured with when I joined the trumpet section of The United States Air Force Academy FALCONAIRES. The rhythm section was awesome with TOOTH Frank Mantooth on piano and MOUSE on drumset. I am truly saddened that MOUSE has passed. GOD BLESS US ALL AS WE ARE ALL HEADED TOWARD THIS TIME OF OUR LIVES. GOD BLESS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. Lil Pete Rosa

i worked with Jack at the USAF Academy Drum and Bugle Corps before his position with the USAF Academy Jazz band, the Falconaires, opened. As memory serves, he played cymbals and tenor drum before joining the Falconaires. There is a wonderful photo of the Academy Corps and Jack, performing on the ice in Boston Garden. He was an amazing man and musician. It was both my honor and privilege to work with him. My condolences to Janice and the family. Peace to you all.

I met Jack when he and I were roommates for a time at the USAF Academy as we both served in the early 70's as Air Force musicians. He was so passionate and committed to always working on his drumming skills, even in the barracks on his rubber pad. He would spend hours practicing basic drumming skills. We attended a live Buddy Rich concert together in Manitou Springs and I never would've guessed that he would be playing in those renowned jazz bands later in life. I loved reconnecting with...

My life was so enriched by Jack and his parents. Such great memories of a young man who gave me love & made me laugh at a time I really needed both. I'm so glad he found Janice. A match made in Heaven.