Service Details
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, 5:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road, Mount Pleasant, with his brother-in-law, Rev. Michael Morris, officiating and his sister-in-law, Jolene Morris, as the soloist. Visitation will be from 2:00pm until the time of the service.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to Carthage College designated to the Athletic Department, 2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha, WI 53140 and to the charitable arm of the Kenosha Fire Dept, Kenosha Firefighters CARE 8530 30th Ave Kenosha, WI 53142.
Jack William Spencer’s life, a tapestry woven with dedication, passion, and love, came to rest on August 8, 2024, in Kenosha, WI. Born on April 20, 1949, on a farm in Racine County, Jack had a strong work ethic instilled in him early on, shaping the man he became. His zest for life was epitomized by his love for sports, excelling both on the wrestling mats and the gridiron during his college days at University of Wisconsin and Carthage College; he brought that same spirit of grit to all his endeavors.
Jack was united in marriage to his first wife, the former Cheryl Winfield, on June 24, 1972. Cheryl preceded him in death on May 25, 2004. Jack was united in marriage to Jane (nee Anderson) on July 15, 2006.
After fulfilling work as a physical education teacher at Union Grove High School (he was a 1967 graduate), he ultimately found his calling as a mortgage officer at Gateway Mortgage working with his life-long and dearest friend, Craig Deaton. Helping countless individuals realize their dreams of home ownership, Jack’s dedication and expertise left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
An active member of his community, Jack served on the Bristol School Board, advocating for the betterment of education for youth and fostering a nurturing environment for all students, serving as president for several years. In 2005, the “Field of Dreams” Little League Field in Paddock Lake was dedicated and memorialized to his late wife Cheryl. Jack played a major role in all of his sons’ athletic and education ventures, and received so much joy watching them on and off the field. Jack’s love for the outdoors, hunting and fishing extended to cherished moments spent at the family cabin in Dunbar, WI, bonding with his sons over shared pursuits, as well as numerous trips out West and to Canada. Later in life Jack loved nothing more than spending quality time with his grandchildren, who always put the biggest smile on his face and brought so much elation and purpose into his life.
He is survived by his beloved spouse, Jane, his children, Greg (Erin) Spencer, Jeff (Caitlyn) Spencer, Annika Nielsen, Erick Nielsen and his adored grandchildren, Amelia, Henry, Gloria, and Leigh Spencer, his siblings, Lee Spencer, Mary Tallent, Susan Schoening, Nancy (Mike) Cadman, Betty Neely, Joseph (Ramona), and James (Sindy) along with many special nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Jenny Spencer, Cheryl, and his two siblings, Barbara Nagy and Richard Brehm.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, 5:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road, Mount Pleasant, with his brother-in-law, Rev. Michael Morris, officiating and his sister-in-law, Jolene Morris, as the soloist. Visitation will be from 2:00pm until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to Carthage College designated to the Athletic Department, 2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha, WI 53140 and to the charitable arm of the Kenosha Fire Dept, Kenosha Firefighters CARE 8530 30th Ave Kenosha, WI 53142.
As we gather to mourn the loss of Jack, let us also celebrate the joy he brought into our lives, the laughter he shared, the love he bestowed upon all and his never ending spirit of generosity (and stubbornness!) In our memories, he shall live on, a beacon of light and love, guiding us through the darkness. Farewell, dear Jack, may you soar eternal in the hearts of those who cherish and love you.
Leonard Schulze says
Oh, Jane! My spirit is enriched by learning about Jack. I have also just learned more about your own journey, and am so happy that Jack brought joy into your life. –Leonard
Lee Spencer says
Thank you Jack for all the good times, your kindness and generosity.
Gail Buskirk says
Jack was one of the kindest and most caring men I’ve ever known. I loved talking with him, we had great conversations. He was a wonderful friend and he will be missed by SO many! I am so sad at his passing.
Kathleen Buisse says
I’m so sorry to hear he has passed away. I have fond memories of him as my gym teacher at Union Grove. He had a way of motivating kids to strive for their best with his demeanor and infectious smile. May he RIP 🙏
Kathleen Buisse
Cindy Wishau says
My condolences to the family. Mr. Spencer was a wonderful teacher who brought such enthusiasm to everything he did. He touched a lot lives, in a positive way. May he rest in peace.
Pat Chandler Goetz says
Deepest sympathy to all family and friends. We all know, Jack will be missed by many. He set the tone of kindness for the Union Grove Class of 67. May he rest in peace.
Kent Terry says
This cousin enjoyed every moment I got to spend with Jack. Unfortunately, physical issues hampered Jack for most of the years I knew him but he was a guy I know I would have loved to hunt or play golf with. My sincere sympathy to my cousin Jane & Jack’s children.
Kerry Gloss says
Jack and I first met in 1978 when I bought sod from George Winfield.
Helped me mortgage my home through Gateway.
Shared the family cabin for the past 40 years.
Such a special friend.
Matt Schultz says
Jack always took care of his boys. There was a special bond that they shared, whether it was sports, the outdoors, or just talking about the challenges of life. Jack was always there with words of wisdom, some times sarcastic, but always true. Jack was also always there for his sons friends. Growing up with the Spencer’s, Jack and Cheryl were second parents to so many of us. We would all spend nights after dances and football games in thier basement. Jack always made sure we were all had a good time. Jack would always allow us to go up north and stay at the cabin unsupervised. If only new all the trouble we got in up there. I can still remeber comming home and having to tell him that we broke all the snowmobiles. He just made a smart comment, like he knew we were going to. Jack lived a great life and made a lasting impact on so many of us. He will be missed, but the memories will never be forgotten. We love you Jack and thank you for everything you did for all us. We always new we could come to you no matter how much trouble we got ourselves in. Your wisdom will me missed.