Jackie Burke Morgan

Jackie Burke Morgan, 88, of Modesto, CA passed away June 24, 2018 Jack was born to Forrest and Nancy Morgan on November 10, 1929 in Miami, Oklahoma. With his parents and sister, Anita, the Morgan family escaped the Dust Bowl and headed for California in 1941. Jack graduated from Modesto High School in 1947 and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, from 1952-54. He married Cecilia Davis in 1965 and settled into their life in Modesto, where they raised 2 daughters and too many dogs and cats to count.

Jack is survived by his loving family: wife of 52 years, Cecilia; daughters Elizabeth Williamson (Jason) and Jennifer Morgan (Norm Anderson); grandchildren Zachary and Kayla Williamson, and Jack, Tim and Katy Anderson; sister Anita Fregoso (Luis); nieces and nephews Jackie Watson, Kelly Bearden (Patti), Julie Gustin (Carl), Andrew Bearden (Courtney), Luis Fregoso III (Janae); stepsons David and Mike Lovett.

Jack worked for over 40 years as an optician at Martin Optical Service. Jack was known as a no-nonsense boss who would also be the first to laugh or help someone in need. His willingness to help others is well-known by friends and family; whether it was helping his daughters move, or working on a friend’s boat, he was depended on and appreciated by many, including the Modesto Elks where he was a valued member. In any situation, he always had a story to share that could fill a room with laughter and smiles.

Jack grew up with a love and appreciation for the outdoors. He was a lifelong sportsman, avid fisherman, and a darn good water skier. Camping and fishing almost always included family and friends, and many precious memories were created while digging through the mud for geoduck clams at Bodega Bay, or casting a line from the houseboat on Don Pedro with his favorite fishing partner, Sweetie.

Jack always insisted he was a simple man, and in many ways he kept his approach to life simple: put family first, work hard, be a good friend and catch the biggest fish. While his life wasn’t always simple, his focus and priorities made each of us know that we were loved.

A chapel service will be held at 1:00p.m., July 14 at Lakewood Memorial Park. Condolences can be left at dignitymemorial.com. The family would like to extend a gracious thank you to Hylond Health facility. Jack arrived there in December, 2017 and was cared for with compassion and respect as he worked to recuperate. Moreover, the people there treated Cecilia like family, and she couldn’t be more thankful for their kindness and hard work.

Donations may be made to Bristol Hospice or the Modesto Elks Club.