JACK NUNN

Jack Nunn, born John Hower Nunn, passed away peacefully just before dawn on Thursday, June 27 at the age of 69 due to complications of diabetes. Born in El Paso on April 6, 1944, to parents William and Esther Nunn. Jack graduated from Irvin High School in 1962, where his passion was track & field. He enjoyed golfing, motorcycle riding, camping, fishing, traveling, cooking and designing and building homes and businesses. He could fix anything. He married his first wife, Pamela Burna in 1963 and they had a daughter, Lori Ann Nunn. He was working at KROD, KELP and KTSM as an engineer and cameraman. In 1970, Jack, his father Bill and brother Teako founded the Cattleman's Steakhouse at Indian Cliffs Ranch in Fabens, Texas. Departing from Cattleman's in 1974, he and his second wife, Peggy Aguilera started a disco night club, The Cotton Patch. After leaving The Cotton Patch and returning to the restaurant business in 1977, they founded the first Great American Land & Cattle Co. The popularity of this business prompted the opening of four other Great American's which have remained open to this day, due to Jack's leadership, vision, and personality. In his long career as a restaurateur Jack garnered praise from around the world for the high quality of his product and friendly consistent service. It is not unusual to find employees at The Great American that have been there for thirty years or more. Jack was loved and respected by many in both his professional and personal life. His teachings and methods were unique, innovative and successful. Jack's favorite pastime was playing golf with his best friends, who were many. Those lifelong friendships became a special bond that can never be broken. He has played many of the major golf courses around the world, but was most at home at Dos Lagos Golf Course, in Anthony, New Mexico. In 2009, Jack fell in love with his third wife Maria Cardona. They married on July 7, 2012 and were inseparable. Through Maria's faith she led Jack to know Christ and he left with confidence that he would be with his Father in Heaven. Jack left behind a legacy of strong family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Marjorie, Bill, and Debbie, and his wife Peggy. He is survived by his wife Maria, daughter Lori Nunn and son-in-law David Gupton, grandson Johntaylor Gupton, his brother Teako Nunn, sister-in-law Josie Nunn, and his sister Jan Spiller, step daughter Tamara John-Baca and husband Jake Baca (their children Isaiah Moreno, Taylor John, and Jake Baca), step children Deja Avery, husband Andrew and their son Jaiden, Moriah Garcia, and Ronnie and Annette Bermudez (and children), as well as many nieces and nephews. Jack loved his family and was particularly fond of the kids, being somewhat of a big kid himself. A celebration of Jack's life will be held at the Great American Land & Cattle Co. Steakburger, 9800 Gateway Blvd North on Monday, July 8 at 4 pm. for family and close friends.