Jack Arthur Western

A kind and gentle soul, Jack Western received his wings on June 20, 2023. His loving, caring ways and his huge heart will be deeply missed by so many, especially his beloved family. Jack was born at home in Casita Springs, CA, to the late Dorothy and Charles Western. He spent his childhood years in Glendale, followed by high school in Fresno, CA. He attended the University of CA at Berkeley, where he met his future wife, Polly. They first met in their speech class; Polly was instantly attracted to his good looks and managed to get his attention by throwing spit wads at him from the back of the classroom while he was giving an oral presentation. Jack and Polly married in 1955 and spent their early years raising their 4 children in San Jose, CA. Jack worked at Borchers Brothers Building Materials for the duration of that time. In 1978, Jack and Polly built their dream home and relocated to Scotts Valley, where he spent his remaining years. Also, at that time, Jack changed careers and moved into real estate, working until he retired at the young age of 85! During his 90 years, he proudly served his country as a second lieutenant in the Marines. Jack was an active member of his community, participating in Toastmasters, the Horsemens' Association, and a longtime member of Sunrise Rotary. He spent many summers volunteering at Camp Opportunity, working with underserved children. Jack had many loves - his family being first and foremost…following close behind was his love of animals. Jack and Polly spent many years riding their horses on the trails of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Plus, he was volunteering at the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter up until a few days before his passing. Another passion was music - Jack loved singing and playing his guitar - family get-togethers often ended up in a sing-along. Jack was an avid reader and had an open mind, which resulted in him being a lifelong learner as well as a walking history book. Jack was very athletic and loved participating in sports. In his earlier years, he played basketball and baseball. Throughout his adult life, Jack played golf, tennis, and racquetball with his buddies. When his kids were very young, he taught them all the joy of snow skiing and continued to ski until the age of 80! He loved people and knew how to truly listen…Jack was caring, generous, and as selfless as they come.As previously stated, Jack's love for his family was deep and unconditional. He leaves behind his wife Polly, his daughters Abbie Miller (Tim), Dana Schmidt (Robert), Stephanie Kingdom (Tim), and son Tom Western (Holly); plus his 9 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.A celebration with close friends and family will be held in late summer. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jack's name to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. If unable to donate monetarily, then share a smile with a stranger and/or some kind words to a neighbor - because that is what Jack would do.