Obituary of John "Jack" Heuser

John “Jack” Heuser A Tribute to My Very Best Friend Jack Heuser passed away September 6, 2016. Born in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago to Art and Mabel Heuser on June 10, 1934, he moved to Blue Island as a young man. A natural athlete and fierce competitor, he was so very proud of playing for the first undefeated football team of Blue Island Community High School (Eisenhower High School) and remained friends with many teammates throughout his life. At Wabash College, Jack joined Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity which provided him fond memories and comical stories he enjoyed sharing with family and friends! After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, he enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Virginia. Jack returned to Blue Island - the city he loved – to begin his professional career at Blue Island Nursing Home. His passion for “the City on the Hill” eventually led him to direct the Blue Island Chamber of Commerce for many years. Jack loved people and was inspirational through his countless hours devoted to a variety of community-focused activities. He was dedicated in service to the District 130 School Board, CEDA, Jaycees, and served as a community representative on the Advisory Board of St. Francis Hospital. He had a particularly notable commitment to the Blue Island Lions Club, and spent many a Fourth of July with his fellow members helping to organize Blue Island’s beloved parade and fireworks celebrations. The Lions Club recognized his dedication by bestowing the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award upon him to honor his humanitarian ideals. Many in town know of the good work that Blue Cap School does for those with developmental disabilities. In the 1960s, few such resources were available and Jack was instrumental in fundraising and working to garner community support for the original Blue Cap School. He later co-founded the Blue Cap Foundation. He was sincerely touched when the City of Blue Island declared March 23, 1983 “Jack Heuser Day”. In retirement, one of his most rewarding volunteer activities was tutoring. He worked with inmates at Joliet Youth Facility to help them pass the GED test. He was thrilled to be asked to be a “reading buddy” at Paul Revere Elementary School. He was so grateful for the Eisenhower Football team’s recognition of the 1951-52 football team last year. What a joy it was to see his teammates again, and interact with the Cardinals of 2015 who also possessed that passion for his beloved sport of football. We were so fortunate to enjoy many years of retirement together, and cherished our memories of our visits to all 50 states. Everyone who knew Jack - family, friends, employees and co-workers - appreciated his quick wit and outrageous sense of humor. Jack could certainly tell a story that would entertain and enthrall! I am so grateful that his wit and humor remained to the very end of his time with us. He was a wonderful husband to me and tears will be shed. But there will also be smiles as I recall the many great times we shared together. He is survived by his children Keith (Diane) Heuser, Randy (Marcia) Heuser, Vicky (Jesper) Rathje, David Heuser, Susan Heuser, William “Billy” Heuser (deceased) and Eric (Sara) Heuser, 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Arrangements are private. I send you off with my eternal love to your eternal rest. JoAnne