Jean Erck

Erck, Jean
May 11, 1919-October 19, 2003 Jean Elizabeth Summerbell Erck died from complications of Parkinson's disease in La Quinta, California on Sunday, October 19, 2003. Born in Michigan, Jean moved with her brothers and sisters to Fallon, Nevada to live during her father's extended illness. She attended Stanford University and graduated magna cum laude from Woodbury College. During the late 30's and early 40's Jean worked at RKO Studios where she had a hand in helping produce the script for Orson Wells' movie "Citizen Kane." In 1944, while Executive Secretary to the President of Doak Aircraft company she met a dashing young lieutenant and soon became Mrs. Martin Erck. Jean's life has been devoted to volunteer work in both the political and charitable worlds. In 1959 she served on the Orange County, California Grand Jury. Jean and Martin moved to Houston, Texas in 1961, where Jean continued her work. She became involved in AFS work and hosted students from both Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and Japan in various years. In 1968 Jean coauthored and published the Harris County, Texas Precinct Manual for Republicans. In 1972 Jean was the Chairman of the Bill Archer for Congress campaign which saw Bill Archer win and serve in congress until his retirement in 2000. Congressman Archer became Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee during his tenure. Jean again served on a Grand Jury, this time in Harris County, Texas. Jean served as volunteer for women's groups providing services for the wives of the original astronauts, and was a special guest at the launch of Apollo 11 when man first walked on the moon. Jean Erck is remembered for a strong and caring life in which she always thought of others first, even in her last difficult years. Jean is survived by her loving sons Martin, Stan and Ted and her grandsons Dan, Matt and Peyton. Any donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. Services will be held at Hope Lutheran Church in Palm Desert on Saturday, December 13, 2003.