A year has passed since I lost Jack. My birth family lost 4 members last year during Covid. Now that Covid restrictions are easing memorials are starting to occur  for our dearly departed as well as one year anniversaries of deaths. Again profound sadness wells up in me that I will not see Jack, Steven, Barbara or Parker again. I live in NM and have monumental arrangements to go to a memorial back east. I will go to Steven’s in the fall and look forward to honoring him. I  will miss Jack and Barbara who always drive many miles to family events. I think about Jack often and all that he was to me.

It took my breath away when I realized it’s been a year ago since we lost Jack. He will always be remembered.  My love to Lisa, Beth, Suzanne, Alison and all his family. May you find comfort in the embrace of each other and all of your many family and friends. I will spend the day thinking of how he brightened my life. Love, Aunt Susan

Jack is my oldest brother. I can only remember very good things about Jack. He was always kind, loving, and patient. Jack was adventurous. As a Boy Scout he took the train to Philmont Camp in New Mexico. As a family we were so excited to see the pictures he filmed of the train ride and the rattlesnake dance. Later I moved to New Mexico and remembered Jack had the first experience here.
Jack was generous. When I was a teenager he lent me his car. I had an accident but Jack never got upset with me. It was a beautiful blue convertible.
Jack was a volunteer fireman. I will never forget when he was at home and the sirens signaling a fire went off,  Jack would jump up and take off down the road lickety split.
Jack was a hunter. He brought home rabbits and squirrels which I did not appreciate eating. One night in winter, I walked into the shed in the dark and bumped into a frozen dear hanging from the rafters. I was so freaked out!
When the Butler rubber mill caught fire, I remember Jack going to houses nearby to wet down the roofs so they wouldn’t catch fire.
Jack liked fine things. He loved Lincoln Continental cars. He proudly drove  them like a king.
My last memory of Jack was at my Mom’s memorial. I sat near him in the church and remember his comforting presence. I also sat at the table with him, Barb, Aubrey, Anne Marie, and Steven. There was always lively conversation with Jack.
I did not see Jack often but I enjoyed his pictures on Facebook of boat rides, dinners, parties, and family gatherings.
I will miss Jack at family reunions, pictures of his great big life, and the Christmas cards.
My deepest sympathies to Barb, his children, grand children, and great grandchildren. He was a great man who gave of himself freely.

Marietta and I first met Jack and Barbara Walek at Lawn Doctor (LD) meetings. We knew that they owned one of the most successful franchises in the entire LD system, and it didn’t take long to figure out why.  They taught us so many things about how to properly run a LD Franchise. 

Jack taught me about the technical aspects of turf, about how to sell, about handling personnel, how to deal with vendors, how to always look to improve the business, and how to look at challenges as opportunities. As I am a pessimist by nature, Jack helped me to stay positive.

In 1987 Jack came down to Virginia Beach to observe how we did seedings.  We were a small fledgling franchise, while Jack owned one of the the most successful franchises in the system. This taught me that no matter how successful a business might become, that you should always look for ways to improve. 

 In sales, I always marveled at Jack’s confidence. Jack once told me that if a salesman goes into a house, and doesn’t come out with a sale (and nobody died), that something was very wrong. I always used this example in my sales classes, especially when trying to drive home the need to ask for the sale.

Jack was always willing to help out. When we were hit with indefinite water restrictions in Virginia Beach, Jack agreed to let me tag along with Brian and observe how they did irrigation. Brian did a great job, but I realized quickly that I was no Jack Walek, and running two companies at one time was more than I could handle.

Another example was in the late 1980’s, when Jack and Barbara got word that we were getting very discouraged and were considering getting out of the business.  They came to Virginia Beach, took us out to dinner (and paid for it), and spent the evening emphasizing how good the business would be for us down the road.

 In closing, I have lost a teacher, mentor, motivator, and great friend. I have benefited greatly  from Jack Walek’s presence in my life. 


So many fond memories of times with Jack and Barbara. They were great mentors when we started our Lawn Doctor business. Our times with them became the basis for a long lasting friendship. 
Jack was always able to cut through the business static/chaos and ENABLE us to find the clear decision without telling us what to do. Never was he too busy to help. We always looked forward to hearing the latest story he had to tell - he was so interesting to listen to.   Jack and Barbara are the most magnanimous folks we know.  
We look forward to the time we can visit with you Barbara and your family. Please know you are thought of often with the fondest regards. 

I worked for Jack for many years he was a great boss, teacher and mentor. I learned many life long lessons from him. So sorry he is gone prayers for the family.

Jack was the best brother anyone could have
We went fishing together , he taught me to water ski , told me stories and was always kind and helpful
I loved him and respected him goodbye my brother

Uncle Jack will always be remembered by his quick smile, infectious laugh, and his devotion to his family.  He truly loved life. Thinking and praying for all as they grieve this tremendous loss.  🙏❤️

He was a good man and uncle. I always enjoyed seeing Uncle Jack. My love to all of my aunts, uncles, my mother, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  My only regret is not seeing him more frequently. Nonetheless, you will be missed, Uncle Jack.

OBITUARIO

John Paul Walek, Jr.

14 marzo, 1937 – 8 julio, 2020

Woody Funeral Home Huguenot Chapel

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