A Celebration of Life for John ‘Jack’ Williamson, 59, Lawrence, will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 12 at Mustard Seed Church 700 Wakarusa Dr Lawrence, KS 66049. Jack died Saturday, April 6, 2013, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.
Jack was born July 3, 1953, in Aurora, Ill., the son of John and Barbara Baker Williamson. He graduated from Ritenour High School and later earned his Bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University and a Master’s of Science and Education from the University of Arizona.
Jack worked as a UniServ Director and organizer for the Kansas National Education Association serving teachers and other education employees in Douglas, Miami, and Franklin Counties. Previously, he taught history and economics in Springfield, MO where he also served as wrestling coach. Jack was himself an accomplished wrestler and avid bicyclist. He took up motorcycling with the same enthusiasm and advocated for motorcycles legislation. He was a member of ABATE and the X WINOS Motorcycle Club.
Jack was also a member of the Holmes Brigade Union Civil War Reenactment Group, using his love of American history while participating in historical reenactments throughout the Midwest.
Jack loved politics and worked tirelessly to elect pro-public education candidates. His enthusiasm was contagious and brought many teachers in both Kansas and Missouri into political action.
Jack married Virginia ‘Ginny’ McQuaide on Apr. 17, 1987 in Joplin, MO. She survives of the home. Other survivors include four sons – Joe Williamson, Austin, TX; James Williamson, Columbia, MO; Aaron Snyder, Chattanooga, TN; Joel Snyder and wife Katie, Springfield, MO; and two daughters – Erin Williamson, Kansas City and Cara Snyder, Topeka. Survivors also include his mother, Barbara Williamson, Brighton, MI; six sisters – Mary Bischoff, Malvern, PA; Gail Hall and husband Warren, Del Mar, CA; Lynda Henderson and husband Phil, Colorado Springs; Diane Williamson, Brighton, MI; Karen Ruffatto and husband Jim, Chatham, IL; and Barbara Mekkes and husband Greg, Norfolk, VA; and one grandson, Evan Snyder.
The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to National Alliance on Mental Health, 3803 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste 100 Arlington, VA 22203, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS, 66044. Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com
I fear nothing. I want nothing. I am free… Nikos Kazantzakis
May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears. And, above all, may our prayers make you strong.
Sincerely yours,
Resa Boydston
I dislike good-byes. So I will say “see you later,” to a very good friend. Honest, passionate, funny – reenacting and wrestling events were always something to be looked forward to with Jack. God bless Ginny and family in your time of sorrow. Remember Isaiah 40:31 and Revelations 21:4.
God speed Jack, we will see you on the other side. Until then.
Eric McNeal
It was great working with Jack in Capital UniServ. His enthusiasm was contagious. My sincere condolences to his family and to my former colleagues at Kansas NEA.
Coach was an incredible man and mentor to many young men. I can’t begin to explain what an influence he was in my life. I had the privilage of having Coach Williamson as teacher as well as a wrestling coach. I remember him quizing me during wrestling practice about history class..always expecting and bringing the most out of all of us on the mat and in the classroom. The world is truly a sadder place without Jack Williamson. Rest in peace Coach and thank you for everything you did for all of us.
Jack was one of those rare individuals who could make most anyone be at ease, relax, smile, and feel positive in his presence. I always enjoyed so very much being around Jack at conferences and NEA activities. He will be greatly missed, but long remembered for what he meant to others.
Ginny, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Our thoughts & prayers are with Jack’s family. We had some fun talks while working together at Kickapoo High school!
I worked closely with Jack for a number of years in Prairie Fire UniServ. He was energetic, intelligent and understanding as he tirelessly served the teachers in our area. We will miss him greatly! My thoughts and prayers are with Ginny and family at this very difficult time.
Dear Williamson Family ~
We are truly sorry for your loss.
I, no We, were so fortunate to have met Jack, Ginny & Cara thanks to their patronage with Riverfront Harley-Davidson/Buell.
I am certain I can speak on behalf of all of us, we truly enjoyed serving this wonderful family.
Peaceful, happy and kind are the first words that come to my mind when thinking of Jack. You could feel and see the love and gratitude he felt for his wonderful wife, Ginny.
The peace he’d created with his life was tangible.
We employees, were rewarded with friendships as a result of that business. Jack is and will remain a priceless gift we were given.
Thank you, Jack. It was an honor.
Love, Kelli (Shilling) Owens and Family
I was shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of Jack. He will be greatly missed and was such as asset to the Holmes and everyone he touched. I will miss him greatly.
It is difficult to believe that I just spoke with Jack last week. He was such a bright spot for so many. In all the places I have worked, there has never been another like Jack. My prayers and thoughts go out to all of those who will be missing him.
I had the privilege of working w/Jack while he was serving as Uniserv director for the Topeka Public Schools area. We met over breakfast every month during that period.
His passion for students was contagious and energizing. The things that Jack spent his time on — investing in others as an educator and advocate — were causes that were not only meaningful, but also enduring. He was one of those people who truly did live out his values.
Sincerest condolences to Jack’s family. You will be heavy in the prayers of the Woods family.
Jack and I served together as NEA Directors from Missouri. We served on both the Missouri NEA and NEA (national) Boards of Directors. We became close friends. We spent many hours studying and debating education issues, advocating for members, supporting each other and just enjoying what often seemed like little leisure time. I will miss Jack’s smile, laugh, history lessons and philosophy of life. He was an advocate, wise counselor and friend to many. I am richly blessed to have known him!
Jack was an exceptional person and professional. When I was suddenly attacked by a parent, it was Jack’s calm and caring demeenor that got me through. What a wonderful and thoughtful person. He will be missed by his family and our family at KNEA.
My sympathy to Jack’s family. I have taught with Cara and she is a tribute to Jack’s legacy, demonstrating creativity and enthusiasm with her students. My daughter has worked with Jack in the KCK district and looked upon him as her mentor in many situations. Our prayers are with you, Joann Walker
For a great wrestler, great mentor, great man, and great coach/teacher/instructor… Thanks, Coach!
I was participating with Jack in a three-legged race at Ft. Scott, KS in the late 80s. The Ladies Union Aid Society was sponsoring the athletic competition at our annual Spring Muster, which was always my favorite event and will once again be held the day after Jack’s service. We were trailing the youngsters when we found our rhythm, caught up and lunged at the finish line. Too close to call. Re-do. Jack and I won easily in the run-off and were each awarded a nice, brown, patterned neckerchief. I treasure it more than ever. Many have mentioned Jack’s smiling face and it is ever-present now through the tears, the sobs, and his voice saying, “It will be okay, Dave.” Thank you, God, for letting me know, although briefly, such a fine man. We will again share a Spring Muster.
Ginny & Family,
I was privileged to know Jack in many situations (even discussing wrestling). He was a great inspiration to many and an advocate for many causes. I enjoyed following his adventures with Ginny on the bike and reenactment thru facebook. Thanks for sharing so much of Jack with the rest of us. He loved life to the fullest and I only hope I can gain some of that from him. I know he talked so highly of his children and grandson and family in general. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jack was an amazing, professional educator, and he was the only Uni-serve Director I ever had that just dropped by classrooms to make sure everything was okay. I loved to talk politics with Jack because he was the perfect mixture of smart, funny and deeply kind. He will be missed, and I am sorry for your loss.
I worked with Jack while serving as superintendent of the Topeka Public Schools. We met monthly for breakfast to discuss issues of the district. Often, our most spirited issues of “debate” was who would pay for breakfast – with each of us wanting to!
He was a tireless advocate for public education and an inspiration to those around him. He was bigger than life in multiple ways and that drew many of us to him.
My condolences to Jack’s family for your loss. May God bless you during this difficult time.
The Birthday that we shared will have a new meaning…….for When every July 3rd that I celbrate from here on out, I will have a memory of you…….Prayers and Blesings to Ginny and the Kids…….
Jack and I met in 1988 at the 125th anniversary of Gettysburg. We were serving in Holmes Brigade, the Western Battalion. We spent 8 days together and I learned so much about infantry life. As we have grown, we shared so many great memories. My oldest son and I shared Jack and Ginny’s home when in need, and built a friendship that stretched across the plains of the Mid-west….Our hearts go out to Ginny and kids…..Jack and I shared Living History, Education, the Border Wars, the love of Wrestling, Harley Davidsons, and life in general…..I know that Jack has crossed over and is clearing a path for the rest of us to cross over to meet him…..until we meet again…..Bless you Jack, and a Hardy Huzzah goes out for Ginny and family….our prayers are with you.
Coach taught me many things, many times whether I was ready or not. I still remember the talks, the guidance, and the way he would help me learn on my own. He was so wise, and always willing to help. No shortcuts, always creating an opportunity to learn when it appeared there was none available. He was a great wrestling coach, I cherish the time that we all had as a team, even when we didn’t live up to his expectations. My thoughts and prayers to Mrs. Ginny & the kids, please always remember how great of a life Coach lived.
B
Jack inspired me to become a leader in my school because he saw something in my abilities that I was yet to learn. Through his guidance, I was transformed as leader in the classroom and among my peers.
I ALWAYS looked forward to meeting with Jack. He was such an interesting man and I learned something new about him and the world at each meeting. He has and will continue to impact many. I will miss you Jack. My prayers are with all his family and friends.
I met with Jack a handful of times for various reasons over the last few years teaching. He was so positive and objective. He always had a smile and a good word to share with everyone. He will be missed! May God’s strength and peace comfort His family and many friends! Many prayers being said for you!
I remember Jack as a vibrant example of association leadership. His joy in life was evident by his diverse interests and abilities. Jack served as an NEA Director during my years on the MNEA board, and I was always impressed by his knowledge and leadership skills. It was Missouri’s loss when Jack went to Kansas….but his death leaves a much greater loss in the lives of loyal friends and loving family. My heart goes out to you.
Jack was my Wrestling coach in Springfield at Kickapoo High School from 1988 until 1992, and my younger brother’s coach as well. He inspired us to push ourselves harder and become more than we ever thought that we could be.
When I was injured Jack came to my house and visited with my family. When I failed he was there with a smile and council. When I goofed off in his history class he noticed, and made certain it never happened again. I still keep the dented book tossed in the garbage during class… which I thought cleverly hidden in a folder.
As a youth I traveled all over Missouri with him, and as an adult his mentoring travels with me still.
I wish I could have rode with my coach on the back roads of the Ozarks, and heard some of his many stories again. I’ve experienced so much because of Jack’s lessons, and know that he touched a great many lives other than my own. He was a remarkable teacher and mentor.
Jack’s smile was almost ever present, except when pleading “what are you doing?” to a young wrestler. He performed impromptu songs during or between classes about bananas having no bones, or Civil War hymns that still resonate in my head. His serious side was often eclipsed by Monty Python quotes and tales of bravado, history, and often hilarious failures… some of them his own, though surely a few of my own added to Jack’s catalog.
When I think of Jack I think of his mischievous and goofy nature most of all. He was always willing to reach for a goal, or pull others along to meet theirs. His work with the Kickapoo Braves youth wrestling club, and my small part in it, was among the happiest times of my life. Jack made happiness, and took troubles and created men.
My deepest sympathies go to to all of his family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike Bayless, Kickapoo 1992, mikecbayless@gmail.com
Jack always had a positive spin on everything. He has helped our organization with contract negotiations and other problems the last couple of years. He will be missed by all. Rest in peace and prayers go out to the family.
After learning of Jack’s death on Sunday morning, I spent Monday driving from the heights of the Rockies to the banks of the Missouri, across Jack’s adopted Kansas. During much of the drive I tried to come to terms with his sudden passing and thought back on our almost 30 years of friendship. Several times I imagined him riding his motorcycle in the lane next to us, enjoying the Spring day.
Jack was an inspiration, I think because he was himself inspired. I rarely saw him without a smile; even when lost in thought or listening to someone else, his natural relaxed facial expression was a smile. When he talked or told a story, his voice had the sound of a smile in it, and more often than not, you’d be rewarded with a laugh and a twinkle in his eyes at the end of whatever he was saying. That smile, that laugh and the sound of his voice I hope to keep with me ’til the end of my days.
I’m sure that Jack had moments of doubt or insecurity like the rest of us, but he seemed to me to live an unafraid life. Whether it was standing up for what he believed in, advocating for those he worked with, teaching and coaching, or riding his motorcycle, Jack lived and fought and played on his own terms. We should all be so fortunate.
Jack was blessed with the gift of perspective. I know that he was passionate about many issues, and took his work very seriously. At the same time, I always felt that Jack could simultaneously see things from a much higher altitude, even things that he was involved with on a very detailed level. I’m pretty sure this was the main source of his smile and laughter…
Oh – And he loved to dance – sober even! That certainly has to place him on a plane above most of us men!
I was surrounded by an almost endless horizon for most of the day, but the world felt a little smaller and sadder. Jack never did materialize in my sideview mirror, and I could hardly stand driving through Topeka near where the accident occurred. Most of us will take comfort in the coming days and weeks by telling ourselves that Jack died doing something he loved doing, and there is a lot of truth to that. But there isn’t one of us who doesn’t wish that we could have just a little more time to share with him.
Thanks for your friendship and inspiration, Jack, and most of all your laughter. To say that you will be terribly, terribly missed doesn’t even come close. My love and support to Ginny, Joe, James, Jack’s sisters and all those who are missing him. Break ranks – March!
Jack was a strong advocate for teachers, public education, and the role of unions. He was a tremendous guide for the Eudora negotiations team. He will be greatly missed. Ride on, Jack, ride on.
Jack was a wonderful person. I know he loved to ride and enjoy the freedom. You will be missed.
Jack touched a lot of lives and will be missed. My condolences to his family.
I first met Jack at Rothenbarger House in Joplin in 1986,I was impressed with his sincerity and his willingness to help me with living history,he inspired me to go back to school,and be an SLP.i am lucky to have had him for a friend,he always had a willing smile and a winning attitude for those he met.When we last talked,he gave me hope,I thank you Jack,for being my friend,I miss you and will try to smile more in your honor,and will try harder for my kids ,to do the right thing.prayers for Ginny and your family to find solace in these hours of trial.
Jack will be missed. My prayers are with all of his family.
I remember walking with Jack through the halls in many of the schools in Springfield. Jack took the time to visit with everyone who crossed our path and it was obvious that he was highly respected within the district. Jack and Ginny’s bike ride to Atlanta was just a small example of the impact the two of them made for public education.
Jack taught us all to live life to it’s fullest, listen to people with interest and advocate for students and public education wherever we go. He will be greatly missed by so many in the NEA family. Our condolences to Ginny and family.
I first heard Jack speak this year and it was obvious right away that his enthusiasm and knowledge were highly respected by many. He came into my life at a time when my confidence waivered and he helped to reassure and encourage me to not give up on myself and my career.
I am touched by how many lives were impacted through Jack’s own time with us- the memories are aplenty and as I read through these posts, it is obvious that Jack’s work, passion, and love will live on in the lives he touched and the souls he inspired.
I first met Jack back in the mid-1980s when he joined the re-enacting group I was part of. He was an immediate, powerful presence that was fun-loving and filled with an enormous amount of knowledge that made every second I spent with him joyful. His good humor, strong wit and always-present smile is forever engrained in me. There are no words to express the sadness that I feel at his passing and yet my thoughts are filled with his joy of life. Jack was one of a kind and the world was a much better place thanks to his presence.
Jack was a reenactor acquaintance of mine and I really appreciated his smile. He had an old soul with a new soul twist. I remember when he went to bike in the Tour de France. I thought he was joking when he told me where he was going…..he wasn’t kidding! and he did very well too. No finer infantryman did he make. Always willing to waltz a lady across the field at a ball and always a gentleman….such a devoted husband to Ginny and spoke of her to his “reenacting lady friends”. He was always in good spirits and ALWAYS smiling…..may he look down on his family and guide them from above. We will miss you Jack…Ginny, my prayers are with you and your kin. Be strong and know that Jack is with God. He loves you very much!
I met Jack in 1990-and to say that he saved my life is an understatement. He took this man, who was a wild 28 year old, under his wing and helped change my life. He introduced me to Reenacting and taught me the value of volunteering. He was always so positive, and he saw the good in everyone. The world lost a wonderful man on Saturday-we love you and miss you-
Daniel and Jenni Dawson
A man who touched the lives of SO many – a positive influence in the lives of educators; a respected professional among teachers, school administrators and school boards members; a consummate teacher… but most of all, Jack was a caring friend, compassionate advocate, and cherished family man. My prayers go out to Ginny and family (and all the rest of us who mourn this great loss.)
I am a teacher whom Jack helped. Thanks so much,Jack, for everything. Rest in peace.
Jack guided me through a stressful situation and was always there with a smile and a handshake. He will be sorely missed.
I just met Jack & was so impressed with his depth of knowledge with educational issues. My sympathies to Jack’s family & friends.
Dear Ginny,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michelle Ehrsam, AIA
I did not meet Jack until early in this school year. Watching me struggle with some very significant vision issues, my wife had contacted KNEA on my behalf. Jack answered. He immediately set up an appointment to come speak with me. Throughout this school year, Jack has met with me many times to help me understand what my options and rights were. He connected me with the right people within the school district to help make necessary changes to accommodate my disability in order to help me be productive. Once the process with the district had picked up momentum, he continued to stop by regularly to see how things were progressing. Although my journey continues, I very much appreciate Jack’s interest in my situation, and the help that he has provided me. I am greatly saddened to learn of his death. Jack will be missed by me, but also by many others like me who have benefitted from his advocacy. Rest in peace, Jack. And peace and blessings to your family.
Jackson,
You will be missed. Memories of you and Ginny often surface. I got to know you both during the bicycle ride from SW Missouri to Atlanta when I drove the “sag car”. We visited most of the major battlefields of Sherman’s march to Atlanta…occasionally I even knew some random piece of Civil War trivia you didn’t…but not often. I was just the other day telling my students of the re-enacting of “The Battle of Camp Jackson” you did when you two stayed at my place here in St Louis. I was honored to be elected to fill-in your position on the NEA Board of Directors when you resigned to take your UD position. Your Civil War class files I borrowed; your habit of writing journals I stole; your (and Ginny’s) friendship I cherish. Safe travels…until we meet again.
Jack was an outstanding educator and leader. His desire to help those in need was evident in his pursuit of helping all children learn. Jack transferred that desire into advocacy for Public Education in MissouriNEA. and KansasNEA. I will never forget the day in St. Louis Jack saw me off in the distance. He yelled and ran up Soldier’s Memorial just to give me a hug and say hello. He was a sweet man who will be missed dearly by family, friends and colleagues. May God bless all those who cared for Jack with comfort during this sad time.
RIP, Jack Williamson: Teacher, Historian, Biker, NEA Activist, Reenactment hobbyist, Wrestling enthusiast and all around good guy. You touched so many lives in positive ways.
I feel priviliged to have been a part of yoru life. Condolences and prayers to Ginny and all your family.
Jack was the ultimate history teacher, whether it was the civil war or NEA/MNEA activism. I’ll always remember sitting on the mall in Washington, D.C., on the 4th of July, 1996, watching the fireworks. It was the NEA RA and Jack led the group on the crowded subway ride home, always with a good story and a gleam in his eye. Missouri and Kansas students and teachers are lucky to have known him.
My favorite memory of Jack was when he and Jenny rode their bicycles to the NEA RA in Atlanta. This year’s RA in Atlanta will be bittersweet thinking of Jack. His depth of knowledge about the Association will be sorely missed.
Jack, I met you at Fort Scott in 1994, my first event with Holmes Brigade. You probably don’t remember, but I was a nervous little 16 year old kid dipping my toe into the tepid waters of the hobby. I was nervous, everyone was older, didn’t know me, and I didn’t know anyone or anything. I had never fired my musket before, much less any other firearm. The officers wisely put me near vets with experience, and you were in the rear rank behind me. You told me to stay calm, listen and not anticipate, and if it went wrong, it wasn’t a big deal because every guy there had done something wrong before and would again. Wouldn’t you know it, that first firing demonstration, I pulled the trigger right on cue. Afterwards, you gave me a pat on the back and welcomed me into Holmes. The years following were no different, and we always looked forward to catching up. You’ve made a big impact in your time, more than you probably know or appreciated, and please know that you will be very sorely missed by so many in so many different ways. Many viewed you as mark of a true pard, and I will miss you greatly, my friend. Ut Deus sit.
Jack was a tireless advocate for the students who attended and the teachers and support personnel who worked in our public schools.
I will remember him for his free spirit, his love of wrestling, his love of civil war history, his love of seeing the country on the back of his motorcycle and his story telling.
Jack was a positive influence on all of his Missouri NEA colleagues. He was open to different points of view, and he was always an advocate for our students and the people who work in our public schools. Every meeting, dinner and gathering included a Civil War lesson. Your friends will miss you, and we will always hold on to our fond memories of you.
As I was beginning to become active in Missouri NEA, Jack was so helpful answering my questions and helping me find my “sea legs” in the world of education advocacy. Jack will be truly missed by students, teachers and NEA members.
Jack was a teacher, a mentor, a colleague, an advocate and a leader. He valued life and all who surrounded him. He had the ability to turn “problems” to “challenges” and respected all opinions in every discussion. He will be truly missed, but also remembered for his wise and thoughtful counsel.
I have many happy memories of Jenny and Jack working in Rockwood and wiath the Rockwood NEA. My thoughts and prayers are with you all now.
Jack was an inspiring teacher, leader and friend. He made a significant impact while he worked with us in Missouri and we have many positive memories of him. Jack made a difference and he will be missed.
Jack was a friend and an advocate for the men and women who labor in public education. His zeal and passion for life and his insights and charisma will transend his passing and serve as an inspiration to all of us. You fought the good fight, Jack. Thank you for being with us and showing us the right way to be.
Jack will be greatly missed by all who had come in contact with him. His work will be missed also.
I didn’t know him well, but when he visited our school, he was so pleasant and friendly. My prayers to his family.
Jack was an awesome person and will be missed by many. Thanks to his family for sharing him with so many teachers!Love and prayers to you all.