Jack L. Fields

Jack Fields was born on May 24, 1936 in Benham, Kentucky. The first child born to Herbert Fields and Helen Tucker Fields, Jack was also the oldest grandchild on both sides of the family. Being the center of attention, and entertaining people with his humor, was practiced from birth. His sociable, friendly and funny demeanor were all traits that were shaped by the beautiful mountains, neighborly people, and booming coal mining area he grew up in.

In 1943 Jack’s family moved to Detroit, which is known for hustling harder. It was a difficult adjustment for all of them. The book The Dollmaker, written by neighbor Harriet Arnow, closely describes the culture shock they experienced. Jack’s first brush with fame happened when he saved a little girl from getting hit by a train. He was awarded a trip to the White House and met President Truman. Jack returned to his hometown to finish high school, then enlisted in the Army after graduation. He was stationed near Frankfort, Germany.

After his honorable discharge, he married childhood friend Elaine Carty. The raised their two children in St. Clair Shores, where Jack worked for the City of St. Clair Shores for 27 years, first as General Manager of Civic Arena, later as City Clerk. Jack worked with countless residents and business owners, and always worked hard to serve them well. He also believed in being appreciative of his staff.

Jack was very civic-minded and involved in many activities. He was the annual announcer of the St. Clair Shores Memorial Day parade (He was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal one year), played Santa Claus at the annual tree lighting and other local events, hosted the annual Cops for Kids telethon, hosted his own local access TV show, was a columnist for his hometown newspaper, served in Kiwanis, and was a highly-sought-after emcee and announcer of local events. In his spare time, he liked skiing, RV camping in Colorado, and visiting family in Kentucky and Florida.

In retirement, Jack enjoyed writing his newspaper column, amateur photography, and relaxing at his second home in Gladwin with his grandkids. Jack and Elaine celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by taking their family on a trip to Hawaii. In later years, Jack enjoyed simpler pleasures, like driving through Detroit to see the progress being made, people watching in Eastern Market, checking out new stores and restaurants, or going to a Tigers game. His greatest joy in life was to be with any of his family members – he adored them all. He loved to just listen to the conversations, and chime in with the perfect, funny remark.

Jack is survived by loving wife Elaine, dear daughter Teri Fields, cherished grandchildren Carolina Blohm and Daniel Blohm, sister Nikka (Bob) Brani, sister Pat (the late Pete) Gumm, brother Dan (Bette Grove) Fields, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by beloved son John Fields, brother-in-law Pete Gumm, and great-nephew Bradly Fields. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in memory of Jack and John Fields.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Memorial Visitation Saturday, January 20, 2018 1pm until the time of service at 6pm.