Jack Wernecke

Jack Wernecke, loving husband, brother, mentor, and father, passed away July 14, 2020 at the age of 89.

Jack was born September 13, 1930 in St. Charles, Missouri, to Herman and Grace Wernecke (Stolebarger). Jack served in the United States Army. stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas, as a tank mechanic from 1948 to 1952. On February 3, 1952, after being honorably discharged, he married Mabel Jean Stepan in Texas. Then they traveled on a motorcycle to San Diego, California, where they began to raise their daughters, Jackie Serrano, Janet Steward, Katherine Jones and Karen Frerk.

Jack and his family moved from San Diego, California to Grants Pass, Oregon in 1976. He was employed at Jim Sigel Automotive for many years, until he retired.

He was a talented auto mechanic and was widely respected in his field. He also had a passion for camping, boating, hunting, riding motorcycles (dirt bakes), woodworking and gardening. He volunteered as an usher at Calvary Lutheran Church for nearly 40 years.

Jack was a dedicated husband and father. He loved spending time with his family. He was best known for his sense of humor, infectious laughter, along with a kind and compassionate spirit.

Jack was preceded in death by his father Herman, his mother Grace, his brothers Herman (Bud), Gary and stepbrother Glen Stolebarger. He is survived by his wife Mabel, his four children, seven grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.

A private service will be held Friday, July 24, 2020.