Jack Dean Sirrine

Jack Dean Sirrine passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on November 26, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 15, 1928, to Charles Rexford ('Rex') and Ruth Sirrine in St. Johns, MI. After graduating from high school in St. Johns, Jack enlisted in the US Navy's Aviation Midshipmen program in 1946 at the age of 18. As an Airman Recruit, he attended the University of Michigan from July 1946 to June 1948, followed by primary and advanced flight training in Florida. He was commissioned as a flight officer in June 1950.
Before his deployment, Jack returned to St. Johns and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Puetz, in July 1950. During his military career, Jack served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars, flying C-130Es, P2V Neptunes, blimps and various other aircraft. He acted as a flight instructor at various points of his career as well. In 1963, he completed his bachelor's degree at the Naval Postgraduate School and earned a master's degree in management. Jack and Mary were stationed in Hawaii, California, Georgia, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Virginia, where he retired from the Navy in 1968 at the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
Jack's military decorations include the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal (two awards), and the Air Force Commendation Medal. After retiring from the Navy, Jack taught math and science for twenty years at Northside Middle School in Norfolk, VA until 1987.
Jack enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially during summers at the family's cottages on Crystal Lake in Crystal, MI. Jack attended high school reunion luncheons each summer until 2023 with his lifelong friend Marvin Rhynard. He was one of the original members of Church of the Holy Apostles, established in 1977. Jack was an active member who served on various committees.
Jack was married to Mary for 61 years until her passing in 2012. He was also predeceased by his parents and brother Bob Sirrine. He is survived by his children Marcia Reece of Ledyard, CT, Gail (and Ray) Orland of Suffolk, VA, Leigh Szarka of St. Johns, MI, Janet (and Jere) Woodall of Woodbridge, VA, and Scott (and Lisa) Sirrine of Virginia Beach, VA, along with twelve grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Jack was a dedicated husband, an amazing father, grandfather and friend. He will be greatly missed and was deeply loved.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11 am, to celebrate Jack's life at the Church of the Holy Apostles in Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Church of the Holy Apostles.