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John MacMullen Obituary
A celebration of his life will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Flight Deck, which was the last place he played music.
Jack was born Feb. 14, 1942, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Canada, to Margaret and John MacMullen, a Methodist pastor.
He spent his adult life as a traveling musician with fellow musician and "brother-in-soul," Richie Gardenhire, until he and Richie finally rooted their career in Alaska in 1980.
A veteran, Jack served in the Army. Aside from music, he loved spending time with his family and golfing and was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan.
Jack is survived by his wife of 12 years, Ruth MacMullen; son, John Jr. and wife Elizabeth; daughter, Ashley Hammond and son-in-law, Michael Boltz; sister, Evie and husband Lyle Odland; grandchildren, Aislynn, Hailey, Ashton, Kasey, Brooke, Vanessa, Mikey and Heather; nieces, Lisa Odland and Lori Odland; and three great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MacMullen Memorial Fund at AlaskaUSA, 400 Credit Union Drive, Anchorage 99501; or American Diabetes Association, 801 W. Fireweed Lane, Suite 103, Anchorage 99503.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Witzleben Legacy Funeral Home. For online obituary and condolences, contact www.alaskafuneralhomes.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John MacMullen
Donna Robinson
February 23, 2025
I never got to meet you Jack, but feel the connection through being cousins. I heard you had a band and was quite the musician. I love your family and my uncle Jack and aunt Marg so much. Wish I had met you. Love cousin Donna Robinson
Jim Savaloja
January 2, 2009
To all of Jack's family and Friends:
I just found out today about Jack's passing from one of our old band members. What a shock that was!
Jack and I were were soul brothers in both our music and as friends when we were in Bottineau, ND during the mid-60's.
We shared events and moments that pushed our luck to the limit at times, but these have provided great memories and mirth for me all the years since we have been apart.
Jack was a little man with a huge spirit, and I know that spirit will remain near all of you who loved him.
Please accept my sympathies and prayers for this cool cat that we will all remember forever.
Arley & Terry Roe
December 17, 2008
Dear Ruthie & John,
We are so saddened of Jack's passing but he is with our God playing beautiful music for everybody.
Kaz Johnson
December 16, 2008
I met Jack while I was playing music back in the late 80's. We played a lot of the same clubs the Tradewinds played. I watched Jack play, he was a consumate professional a talented musician and a truly nice guy to be around. As my son was growing up we would always try to go golf with Jack and Ruth, when we did we would all have a great time. Jack will be missed by us all.
Karen
December 16, 2008
"Somewhere Over The Rainbow"
Our loss is Heavens gain.
Audrey Ware
December 15, 2008
Jack, you will be missed by so many.
I always enjoyed listening & dancing to the Tradewinds. Memories are in our hearts.
Richie, Ruthie & Family, my deepest sympathy goes out to you.
John MacMullen Jr.
December 12, 2008
I would like to thank all of you who either posted or read this guest book in my father's memory. Your words and thoughts will be kept close to my heart.
Thank you,
Deborah Favorite-Schacher
December 11, 2008
Dear Ruth and Richie. I moved to Anchorage from Los Angeles about five years ago. One of the first places I discovered was the Time Out. I never missed a Friday and Saturday night dancing and enjoying their music. One night, while dancing to What a Wonderful World, the man I was dancing with kissed me. We were married a year later, and Jack and Richie, I want to say thank you so much for your heartfelt contribution to my life. My husband, also from North Dakota, loved to talk Vikngs and golf with Jack. He will be missed by many.
Arlin Melgaard
December 11, 2008
To the MacMullen family,
I grew up with Jack in Bottineau, ND. I foldly remember traveling with the MacMullen family to Minot, ND to do their weekly TV show, when his dad was a Pastor in Bottineau. Jack was one-of-a-kind. He will truly be missed. May God bless your family.
David Melgaard
December 11, 2008
To the Jack MacMullen Family.
I am saddened by the lost of Jack, please accept my sympathy. Jack and I grew up together at Bottineau, North Dakota and were close friends. I remember Jack staying a the Melgaard home overnight many times. He always had a smile on his face. and a song for everyone. He tauaght me about singing harmony. After Jack returned from his military duty, Jack others and I played together for two years in dance band called "The Dreamers". Jack was surely a fine musical talent and taught me many things about music during those two years. Again, I am sorry that Jack has passed away.
Dave Melgaard
Kenneth Blackwell
December 10, 2008
Dear Ruth and Richie, I was very sorry to hear about Jack. He was a wonderful Human Being even if he had never played music. Of course my time that I shared with him was on the stage with the Tradewinds, Mr. James Pruitt and Mr. Pennywell. Lots of fun and sharing the gift of music. Mr. Pruitt passed about a year and a half ago and the last time I saw him he sang" I've had my fun if I don't get well no more. May God be with you and keep you. Keep the Faith!
Jerry and Joann (Melgaard) Metzgar
December 10, 2008
To the family of Jack MacMullen:
We were so very sorry to hear of your great loss. Jack was a friend of our family here in Bottineau when we were growing up. Wherever he went he had his trumpet in his hand and was singing whatever song was popular at the time. Even though we lost touch with him over the years, the great memories live on.
Jim Christianson
December 10, 2008
Jack and I grew up in Bottineau ND and were very good friends. We had many good times together and I can still see him blowing that horn. He's that part of my past that I'll never forget. A great guy, a great musician and someone I'll never forget. Rest in peace buddy.
Gordon Klein
December 10, 2008
Ruth & Richie,
My heart goes out to you and your family. Jack was a wonderful man and will truly be missed by many. I will never forget Richie singin & Jack playin trumpet on "What a Wonderful World," and Jack helped make it that way!
Pat Owens
December 10, 2008
Jack knew so many tunes and played with enthusiasm whether the room was empty or full. A real pro. I liked to encourage his trumpet playing and he was always very gracious. My condolences to his family.
Karen Bueler-Boston
December 10, 2008
Dear Ruth: I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My heart goes out to you and my prayers are with you. Love you lots,
Sam Parker
December 10, 2008
I feel honored to have known Jack. He was upright and honest and lived his values. I know he is with the Father and can now hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant".
Debbie Dunagan
December 10, 2008
I am so sorry to learn of Jack's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have so many wonderful memories of the "Alaskan-Hawaii" golf tournaments and loved seeing Jack and Ritchie play at the Time Out.
Lonnie Ratliff
December 9, 2008
Our Condolences,Sorry to hear, May The Lord give you his love and comfort through this time.
Life Time Of Country
Lonnie & Pam.
Sandy Nielson
December 9, 2008
We lost a dear friend - God gained an angel.
Tammy Lanese
December 9, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Vicki Rumfelt
December 9, 2008
JACK,
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!!
Amie & Lucky Ivey
December 9, 2008
Dearest Ruthie,
Our hearts are with you during this difficult time. Just remember this one thing..."Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about getting out there and dancing in the rain." Jack will dance with you in your heart and memories always.
Bernadine Dufour
December 9, 2008
Dear Ruth:
My sincerest condolences to you and Jack's family. His smile lit up a room. He will be missed by all.
Matt Hammer
December 9, 2008
I've worked with Jack on a number of occasions "back in the day" and had the pleasure of having his bass playin' on two "Schultz and Hammer" recordings. He was always the complete professional.
Oh my... John "Jack" MacMullen you will be missed!
Shauna Munro
December 9, 2008
Ruth and Ritchie,
I am so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. We've lost a gifted, talented and wonderful friend. He was a kind and generous soul, who's music touched the hearts of everyone.
I hope Jack is teaching the angels to sing "Over the Rainbow".
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Wilbur Mattoon
December 9, 2008
So I would mosey into the Flight Deck and Jack would invariably spot me and yell out -Wilbur! Soon after Jack and Richie would break into Sweet Home Alabama to my benefit and I loved it so much, truly and especially their rendition. A sweet and fun man; a moment in my life has passed. –W Mattoon
Tammy Boltz
December 8, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Patrick Ryan
December 8, 2008
I had the pleasure to do shows with Jack and Richie throughout many years in the Alaskan music scene. Jack's musicianship and humor will be missed. Can you imagine who he's jamming with now!?
My condolences to Jack's family. He was a great guy!
Maureen Van Sickle
December 8, 2008
Jack added beautiful music to my life and will be greatly missed. Blessings to his family.
Scott Ginn
December 8, 2008
You will truly be missed in my heart and the hearts of many others you have touched throughout your life. I thank God that I met you and was able to be part of your world. Ruth you are in my prayers.
Troy Butler
December 8, 2008
Ruth and Ritchie i am so sadden to hear that Jack has passed. I have know Jack and Ritchie for over 10 years and when ever i would go into a club, they would always make me smile,they always played my Dad's favorite song everytime for me without asking. We used to go in the T.O. and they would ask us what song we would like to hear,we would try and stump them with off the wall songs but they would know. I am so glad i was Jack's friend i am truly going to miss him. Safe Journey. Troy butler
Dane Wyrick
December 8, 2008
To a man who chased his dreams and lived them. My hat is off to you and my ears open, that i may in my silence hear the sweet sound of your music radiating from heaven as a beacon, to show us the way.
Rest in peace buddy.
From the Heart Mr.Dane
Beverly Turley
December 8, 2008
Family of Jack,
I didn't know you but loved Jack. He was one of the reasons I went back to AK. He was a friend and an excellent musician. He always said he would stop and stay with me when he was in New Mexico.
Jim O'Toole
December 8, 2008
I didn't know Jack but heard him play a number of times. I feel that anyone who gave his life to entertaining people with his music will be missed. His music will live on.
bill neumeister
December 8, 2008
We all will miss Jack,especially the working musicians who looked to Richie and Jack to keep it alive in Anchorage.
When Mike Mac Donald had his life's celebration at the Fly By Night in 2001 keys had me on drums when Richie and Jack Played "Rainy Night In Georgia". After the set I was introduced to Ritchie and Jack. Ritchie had kinds words to the effect "you have big ears"
Jack had words for that... "And a big NOSE TOO! We laughed !
We really thought a lot of the Tradewinds! Funny Guys!
bill neumeister
Aislynn, Jack, Hailey
December 8, 2008
Jack
December 8, 2008
Lori Odland
December 8, 2008
Cousin John, Liz, and Aislynn,
John ~ Your dad adored you and I know you adored him just as much. I remember growing up hearing all about your swimming meets and the medals you won.
He was so excited when you and Liz married and we surprised you for that big day. I will never forget that.
He adored lil Aislynn. He would send me emails every now and then and mention her. I know she will grow up to find that she had one of the most amazing Grandpa's in the world. As will the "soon to be" lil one.
I know growing up I hardly got to see you, I often thought of you. I am glad that you guys have traveled here almost every year. I need to return the favor in the years to come.
Carole Fischler
December 8, 2008
Ruthie,
We are so sorry to hear about Jack.
We will always remember his music.
We miss you and hope that knowing others care will help you during this time of sorrow.
Carole & Juanita
Big Mitch
December 8, 2008
Jack, for what you did for Ritchie, over the years, may God Bless and Keep you. RIP.
Troy Butler
December 8, 2008
I have known Jack and Ritchie for a longtime. I will miss him,whenever i would come into the club they would always play my dad's favorite song for me. Jack and Ritchie would always make me smile. I am honored to have been friends with such a kind and loving soul. Safe Journey...
Martha Ober
December 8, 2008
Ruthie.... Jack touched our lives and will be remembered. What a great guy! Martha
Charlotte Kross
December 8, 2008
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Greg Waggoner
December 8, 2008
Alaska has lost a true entertainer and an all around great guy.
See ya at the big jam Jack!
Cheri Phillips
December 8, 2008
Ruth,John & Liz:
My heart is heavy for all of you today, but I know where he is and that is the best place you could ever be. My thoughts and prayers and with you all of you today and you will always be in my heart.
Perry Green
December 8, 2008
Am so sad to learn of the passing of this fine man who provided such beautiful music to 'Anchorage for so many years. As devoted as he was to his wife, he also was so caring and devoted to his equally famous friend who was his constant companion as well.
There is no doubt that Jack will be joining the supreme band to welcome those who will follow him to heaven where I know he now resides.
with fondest memories;
Perry Green
Lori Odland
December 8, 2008
Uncle Jack and Aunt Ruth,
Ruth ~ Thank you so much for being in Jack's life and for taking care of him. You were so good to him, I will never forget that. He was in good hands with you.
Jack ~ Words cannot even describe how much I am going to miss you. Even though you were a Vikings fan, I still loved you. (Packers are better anyway!). Your music, love, and humor are things that will stick with me forever and hopefully, some of it I can pass on.
I love you both very much and will miss you terribly Jackie Poo :)
TIFFANY RUSSELL
December 8, 2008
Jack you will be so missed i loved when you played red red wine for me...Ruth am so so sorry love always Tiffany
Nick & Norma Nickarz
December 7, 2008
We are so very sorry for you loss. We have been friends to Jack for over 30 years. We will miss him dearly
May He rest in the hands of Almighty God
Adele McElroy
December 7, 2008
Ruth:
I'm so sorry for your loss in the passing of Jack but fortunately your were able to share the last years of his life with him. I truly loved going to see him and Richie play and they always played the golf boogie blues! They both put a smile on my face!
Take care Ruth and know you are in my thoughts. Adele
julie roe
December 7, 2008
Dear John,this is so sad!I rembered when your mother passed.John my heart goes out to you and your family. Take care of yourself, love too all/ Julie Roe
Dennis & Gala Smythe
December 7, 2008
Ruth and Family - We were so saddened to hear about Jack. We will continue to think of you and keep you in our prayers. It was such a privilege to know Jack. We know you have many wonderful memories to carry in your heart.
Patti Nichols
December 7, 2008
I am so very sad to hear about Jack's passing. He always had a sincere smile on his face and warm hug to cheer you. He will be missed but remembered so very fondly by all he touched and those of us lucky enough to have known him
All my love Ruthie, May God Bless
Dennis and Jewel Tweeten
December 7, 2008
Played golf with Jack often - retired from Alaska in 1998 - Jewel and I danced to Jack and Richie's music - when we walked in he would play and Richie would sing our favorite - "I just called to say I love you" God Bless you and give you strength, Ruth. Many fond memories.
Don Walker
December 7, 2008
Always a good time when Jack performed. A great talent and a true professional. I will miss ya buddy!
herman & toni solomon
December 7, 2008
our hearts are with you during these trying times, Jack was a wonderful man and he had the most beautiful voice, he will truly be missed .
Frank and Linda Persichetti
December 7, 2008
We have many happy memories of time spent together.
Peace be with you, Jack. You will be missed.
Earline Hendrickso
December 7, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
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