John Jack Emerson Rowland passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on September 14, 2009. Jack was born on July 20, l927, in Port Townsend, Washington. His dad was a career Army man, and Jack traveled the world, enjoying homes in Hawaii, San Francisco and Corregidor, Philippines. He joined the Navy and spent time in Samar, Philippines and the Aleutians. Following his discharge in l945, he enrolled in San Jose State, graduating with a BA in Fine Arts and Education. In l947 Jack met Jacqueline Mack and they married a year later. Their happy marriage of 61 years produced a clan of four children, Chris Alexis, Ralph Nina, Cindy Art and Larry Diana, fourteen grandchildren Valerie, Becky, Amber, Miranda, Zach, Kristen, Jenna, Jordan, Kelsey, Michelle, Mackenzie, Taylor, Lacey and Brittney, and four great grandchildren Ben, Daphne, Mack, Moby.
Jack enjoyed an early retirement after teaching Art & Industrial Arts in the Campbell School District for 29 years. A gifted artist, Jack built an art studio where he spent many hours painting portraits and landscapes for friends and family. In 2004 he had a one-man art show. Travel highlights include: salmon fishing in Alaska, visiting the bombed out remains of his home in Corregidor, flying to Hong Kong and China, and taking trains across the U.S. Jack skillfully helped others by fixing their cars, improving their homes and being a "jack"-of-all-trades. Jack enjoyed creative writing, gardening, fishing, camping and especially his grandchildren.
Jack will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Jacque, and his large family, including his siblings Gloria, Stephen, Flora and Michael. We thank God for all the wonderful memories of our husband, father, grandpa, brother and uncle. He begins his new life in Heaven with the Savior he loved and served, Jesus.
His memorial service will be held at the Community Covenant Church, 2700 El Rancho Dr, Santa Cruz near Scotts Valley at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 19. Contributions may be made to the Working Hands program in the Philippines, which teaches young men vocational arts. Mail to: Action International, 10034 Main St., Bothell, WA 98011-3424 write "Working Hands" in the memo line. Arrangements under the direction of Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Mary & Rand Schroeder
October 1, 2009
We just heard of Jack's passing yesterday. We know how hard it is to lose a loved one. Jacque, you have been such a faithful and loving wife to Jack for all of these years. Our prayers are for your comfort at this time, and strength in knowing that he is now with our Lord in heaven.
Kramer
September 30, 2009
I was so very sad to hear of your loss. I remember his kindness and generosity for all the years helping my aunt with our cabin. I'm certain my aunt and my father are celebrating his homecoming with him. All our prayers are with you and your family as you remember his life. I wish we lived closer. We love you Jacque.
With many thoughts and prayers,
Ron, Liz and family.
Dominican RN
September 23, 2009
I only knew him for a few hours. He talked to me of his long life, especially steering the oil tankers across the Pacific during the war, and later as a teacher. He seemed a very kind soul.
Jennie Sauvageot
September 19, 2009
Wish I could be with all the family as you remember and celebrate Jack's life. Jacque, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you lots!
Dick Mack
September 16, 2009
Thank you for being such a dear brother-in-law these 61 years.
I am happy that you are now enjoying
Heaven in all its glory.
Margaret Nelson
September 16, 2009
We'll miss you, Uncle Jack!
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