Jack Duane Haskins

Jack Duane Haskins, 81, former Midland resident, died Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2015 at his home in Indio, Calif., from complications of Parkinson's disease. Jack was born Jan. 13, 1934 in Foil, Mo., to Leonard and Rosa (Humbyrd) Haskins. He spent his early childhood in the Ozark mountains before his family moved to the Midland area in 1940. An exceptional student leader and athlete, Jack was class president of Midland Senior High School where he graduated in 1952. A gifted basketball player, Jack and his younger brother Joe also achieved great success with undefeated seasons for the Chemic tennis team.

Jack attended Central Michigan University, where he was sophomore class president, graduating with Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Education degrees. He and his brother continued their tennis careers as the University's top singles players and doubles team. Upon graduation, he entered the U.S. Army Reserve as a Second Lieutenant, eventually retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Jack married the former Joan Pelton in 1956, and they had four children together.

Jack had a 40-year distinguished teaching and coaching career. He began his profession as a teacher in Ithaca, Mich., moving on to Midland's Central Intermediate School where he taught several classes and coached basketball. As one of the first educators at Dow High School, he taught a variety of subjects and coached cross-country, basketball and tennis for many years. His Charger tennis teams were known throughout the state for their depth and talent, winning many invitationals and tournaments.

He subsequently pursued his lifelong passion for tennis as a full-time teaching professional in Kansas, Texas and Arkansas before returning to the education field, teaching and coaching in Battle Creek, Mich. Later, he moved to the San Diego area, teaching and coaching in Ramona. On Dec. 6, 1997, Jack married the love of his life, Martha Lee Florin. Upon retiring, Jack focused on adult literacy as a General Educational Development (GED) instructor. He and Martha traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Jack instilled in his children his love of books, sports, spirited debate and his innate sense of fairness. His favorite refrain was "Everyone deserves a chance." Jack's fondness for cars was legendary, exceeded only by his excitement in discovering roadside diners and dives. His piercing blue eyes, curiosity, quick wit and always positive attitude epitomized the Kid from Missouri.

Jack remained close to his teammates, fellow teachers and coaches, former students and playing partners throughout his life. A determined competitor, he played tennis weekly until the month before his passing. "Cap'n" Jack's perfect day was a challenging tennis match, a good movie and a great margarita. We will miss him dearly and always.

He is survived by his wife, Martha; three daughters, Deborah (Steven) Zuccarini, Julie (Jeff) White, Cynthia (Philip) Lowery; son, Richard Haskins (Mindy); stepsons, Mitchell (Amy) and Larry (Camille) Kauffman; and his 12 grandchildren, Melody, Becca, Luke and Lydia Lowery, R.J. and Sarah Jane Haskins, Christopher and Marisa White, Shawna (Steven) Zsinko and Ken Zuccarini, Elissa and Michelle Kauffman; and two great-grandchildren, Cameron Bryant and Colt Zsinko. He is also survived by his mother, Rosa Carvella; sister, Betty; and brother-in-law, Raymond Shangle; sister-in-law, Marilyn Haskins; sister-in-law, Ellen (Bruce) Sotland; brother-in-law, Robert (Ada) Florin; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Haskins; brother, Billy (Joe) Haskins; infant brother, Bobby J. Haskins; stepfather, Cecil Carvella; stepson, Michael Kauffman; nephew, David Randall Shangle; and grandson, Joel Lowery.

Jack's family wishes to thank his devoted caregivers: Yaneth Orduno, Joshua Ortiz and Isaac Molina from Custom Care Solutions; and Gentiva Hospice for their kindness and compassion.

Following Jack's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in Midland, Mich. at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation would be greatly appreciated.