Jack Sheldon 1940-2020
John “Jack” A. Sheldon, 80, of Holton, passed away Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Jack was born Feb. 10, 1940, near Vesper, the youngest son of John and Alice Sheldon.
Jack graduated from Vesper High School and went on to Kansas State University, where he was a member of the baseball team. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education and later went on to earn a master’s degree in administration from Emporia State University.
He married DeeAnn Freidenberger on Aug. 17, 1963 in Hutchinson. She preceded him in death on Aug. 25, 2014. Also preceding him in death were his parents, John and Alice; sister Esther Horrocks; and his brother Dale.
Survivors include daughter, Tami Coe (Michael) of Perry; two sons: Stephen Sheldon (Lana) of Holton and Jarrod Sheldon (Leah) of Wamego; and 10 grandchildren, Heidi Parker (Jason), James, Casey and Andrew Coe, Sonora Seacat (Connor), Walker and Cooper Sheldon, and Ellie, Maddie and Dane Sheldon; and two great-grandchildren, Raegan and Avery.
Jack was a teacher, coach, athletic director and then principal at Jackson Heights High School from 1970 until his retirement in 1996. He was best known for his competitiveness as a basketball coach. At JHHS, he produced many great teams, including one state champion team. Six teams during his tenure went to the state tournament. At the time of his retirement from coaching in 1985, he was one of the winningest coaches in the state with a varsity win-loss record of 264-78. He continually focused on fundamentals, teamwork and character. After retirement he served as a paraeducator in Holton, helping elementary students read.
Jack enjoyed history and collecting antiques. He also spent much time taking care of his horses, mowing and general land maintenance. He continued mowing pasture well beyond the point of his ability to walk on his own. He spent many hours on the lake with his family and friends and enjoyed their house on Beaver Lake during retirement.
Private family graveside services will be held Wednesday, Nov. 25 in Holton Cemetery. Jack will lie in state from Sunday, Nov. 22 until 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.
Memorial contributions can be made to Jackson Heights Educational Foundation. Due to the critical situation our country is in, please remember the families during this difficult time and consider sending a card of condolence or posting on our website. Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
