Jack Duaine Doepke

Jack Duaine Doepke

March 29, 1942 - May 9, 2025

The world became a better place when Jack was born on March 29, 1942, in White Cloud, Minnesota. He passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Jack's family moved to Tacoma, WA, where he earned the nickname "Buster" as a young boy. Raised on a farm, he learned the art of gardening from his mother and a love of horses from his father. As a teenager, he worked at a nearby restaurant-so beloved that they named a crowd-favorite menu item after him: the "Buster Burger."

Jack graduated from Franklin Pierce High School in Tacoma in 1960 and went on to study at Pacific Lutheran University, where he earned a science degree in 1965. It was at PLU that he met Judy, his best friend and lifelong companion. Jack later completed a master's degree in Science Education at Washington State University.

A gifted educator, Jack had a rare talent for sparking curiosity and excitement about science in his high school students. Over four decades in education, he inspired countless young minds.

After retiring, Jack and Judy embraced the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, spending treasured time exploring the waters of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and British Columbia's Inside Passage on their boat. Together, they navigated life side by side for 61 years.

Jack lived a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and learning. His passion for science and teaching shaped his career, but he also found joy in boating, garage sales, and writing. He authored several fictional novels and was a natural storyteller-always ready with a quick smile and a twinkle in his eye.

Jack is survived by his three children: Bradley Doepke (Lisa), Tonja Johnson (Matthew), and Tera Ahlborn (Thomas); his grandchildren: Linsey Belisle (Saul), Chase Johnson (Natalie), Maxwell Ahlborn (Katy), and Jack Ahlborn (Amy). He is lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing and a comfort to all who knew him. We know we will see him again.

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation."

- Isaiah 12:2

A memorial service honoring both Jack and Judy will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Tacoma on Saturday, June 21, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow.