John "Jack" Thomas Lemke

On Friday, November 3, 2017, John, aka Jack, Lemke passed away at the age of 72 in Arizona, what he called home for the last 14 years. He will be greatly missed by many. Jack was not only a family man, but a Vietnam war hero. Jack was known to have a smile on his face no matter what challenges he was faced, even as they came more frequent and with great severity in the last few years. Somehow, he always knew how to show up for you. He was always willing to provide a helping hand, sound advice, or simply be there for you when you needed him. It was evident that Jack loved dogs and the dogs adored him. He was referred to as the dog whisper because of his gentleness with animals which clearly transferred to the people around him.

Playing BINGO has been one of his favorite hobbies and he always strived for the “BIG win”. Jack had a passion for cars and trucks. He loved his mustangs and enjoyed attending car shows reminiscing about the good ‘ol days. He always purchased a monthly car wash package which he used frequently. However, it was always questionable as to whether or not shopping at Walmart qualified as a hobby.

Jack was born to Marion and Clarence Lemke on June 18, 1945 at Resurrection Hospital in Chicago, IL only hours after his twin sister, Jane. He was the youngest of eight children: 5 sisters (Mary Engles (deceased), Rosellen Jarvis (deceased), Kay Heindl, Marge Pavett, and Jane Rutkowski) and 2 brothers (Larry Lemke (deceased) and Michael Lemke. Jack joined the Army and proudly served his country for 2 years. He was a born leader in a gentle way. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary C. Lemke, he is survived by his children; Dennis (Cheryl) Lemke, Denise Lemke and John (Amanda Murphy) Lemke. His family continued to grow with five wonderful grandchildren Ashley, Daniel, Kristin, Tyler, and Jordan Lemke and one great grandchild Aubrii Hatch.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 6pm, Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at Surprise Funeral Care 16063 W. Bell Road, Surprise, Arizona 85374. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Jacks name to American Diabetes Association or American Cancer Society. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.