In Memory

Jack Stack (Teacher 57-89)

 

John David Stack Obituary
 
John David Stack
February 20, 1929 - March 2, 2017
Resident of Pleasant Hill, CA
John "Jack" Stack died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on March 2, 2017. He was 88. Jack is survived by his children, Debbie Stack and her wife, Kelly; Dineen Burdick and her husband, Bill; Doreen Stack; and Dennis Stack and his wife, Diane and his brother, Jerry Stack. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Patricia Burdick, John Burdick, Kevin Stack, Chris McConnell, Mara McConnell, Jack Stack, Trent Willis, and Stephani Moore. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Carol, son David, granddaughter Sara, sister Joan, and brother Jim. Jack was a history and driver's education teacher at Piedmont High School (PHS) for 40 years and stayed in touch with many of his former students, attending class reunions and other PHS centered events. Jack also received a Fulbright Distinguished Teaching Award and was sent to England to teach for a year. During his time in England he and his wife, Carol, had the opportunity to become part of a small village community, were introduced to the Queen Mother, and made many lifelong friends. As a history teacher with a Master's degree in Eastern European History, Jack decided to research the genealogy of he and Carol's families. They traveled to Ireland to review church and other source documents, and eventually, Jack's research led him to find his relatives in Ireland. He was able to visit them numerous times. Jack was able to document his ancestry and as a result, he was granted Irish Citizenship in 2011. Jack was also an avid golfer all of his life and once he retired, he joined the Sons in Retirement organization. Through that organization, Jack met many others who shared his passion for golf and also who became great friends. Jack continued to golf until shortly before his death. During the last years of his life, Jack also met Bobbie Follini and through their relationship, became involved with a fun crowd at Rossmoor. Jack did more than golf once he retired, he liked to keep busy. Upon retirement, he founded Jack Stack Driving School, which is now operated by his son, Dennis. He built 2 homes in his life, and he continued with home improvement projects into retirement, whether his own, or helping out others. One of the signature things about Jack was his ability to make and sustain relationships. Coming from a very large family, he made a point of keeping in touch with his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was always ready to take a drive to visit someone, attend a wedding, bring his tool chest and assist with a project, or just visit and share a drink and a laugh. His good nature and the depth of his friendship was evident in January when he hosted one final party. While 250 people were expected, well over 350 showed up to show Jack their love and respect. He was honored and moved that so many people took the time on a rainy Sunday to say goodbye to him. His family was also moved and thanks everyone who attended, called, or sent cards. The affection that was shared with him that day made him so very happy. Jack is mourned by many, but his memory brings smiles as he lived a good full life, filled with love and laughter.
A private service will be held.


View the online memorial for John David Stack
 
 
Published in East Bay Times on Mar. 9, 2017