Jack Walton Bloomer

Jack Walton Bloomer, 88, of Edmond, Okla., died December 3, 2009, from difficulties of Parkinson's disease and cancer.  Jack was born September 29, 1921, near Marietta, Okla., to J. Emmitt and Emma Greene Bloomer.  Jack joined the National Guard, 45th Infantry Division at age 16. Immediately after graduation from Overbrook High School, he entered active duty as one of the Thunderbirds of the Fighting Forty-fifth.  Jack fought in the North African and Sicilian campaigns, Anzio and Salerno. It was for action during the battle for Salerno that he received the Purple Heart, British Distinguished Conduct Medal, the Distinguished Service Cross and the Bronze Star.  He received a battlefield commission in the same action. After World War II, Jack moved to the Edmond area to attend school.  He also met and married Mary Olson. He taught school and coached basketball at Arcadia. They had one child, Christina (Tina).  Jack continued to serve in the National Guard throughout the Korean War, advancing to the rank of Captain in the 179th Headquarters Company of the 45th division. After the Korean War, Jack attended OSU obtaining advanced degrees.  He worked as counselor, teacher, and elementary principal in the Oklahoma City Public Schools for over thirty years. Jack enjoyed raising and trading livestock and poultry.  He served as mentor for many young men, helping for years at Boys Ranch Town. Jack's immediate family lives near him in the Edmond area. He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Christina and son-in-law Dean Kiser.  He has one beloved grandchild, Russell Kiser, and wife Julie Cho, and two precious great-granddaughters, Mary Lena and Cara Rose.  He is also survived by one sister, Fay B. Abernathy of Oklahoma City, brother-in-law Carroll Olson of Arkansas, sister and brother-in-law Donna and Charles Suenram of Edmond, and nieces and nephews scattered throughout the country.  Jack was known for his dry wit and integrity.  He loved his Lord and loved his country and we will miss his none-too-subtle direction and forthright opinions. The family is appreciative of the prayers and ministry to Jack during his last weeks, especially friends at Arcadia First Southern Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boys Ranch Town.  Services for Jack will be held at 2 PM on Monday, December 7, 2009 at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Arcadia I.O.O.F. Cemetery.  Services are under the direction of Matthews Funeral Home, Edmond, Okla.