Obituary of Jack Merril Coffelt

JACK M.COFFELT 1928-2014 Jack died October 3, 2014 peacefully with his loving family at his side at Dameron hospital . Jack had fallen ill and was hospitalized at Dameron for difficulty breathing and in the end his heart failed. Jack was born and raised in Stockton California. Preceded in death by his parents Virgil and Lillian Coffelt, his in-laws Albert and Margaret Brooks along with young son Jeffrey Coffelt. Jack Graduated high school in 1946, where he studded four years to be machinist. The day following graduation he enlisted in U.S. Navy and after boot-camp was sent to Shanghai China on the U.S. Spinx on ARL #28. Prior to leaving for boot camp he became coach to the Orrens a girl basketball team at the Y.M.C.A. which never won a game. Beverly and Jack meet in highs school but as the coach of the Orrens girls basketball team their love blossomed. Unbeknownst to Beverly , Jack had shared a conversation with his best friend at the time that Beverly was the girl he would marry. Jack literately pursued Beverly in a quiet manner. After returning from China Jack reconnected with Beverly at College of the Pacific. Life became a new beginning with married in1949. Just settling in with the marriage and their first born child the government came after Jack for the Korean war, were he was sent to Coronado California Amphib base. He repaired all sorts of machinery including the underwater demolition equipment. In thanks for all the support the under water company offered him fresh lobster. Which they ate so many he refused to eat them ever again. Shortly after Jack had left for Coronado, Beverly and first born Jody followed. Jack's life ambition was to be a diesel mechanic. As his years in the Navy came to a closure and educational goal was not achieved Jack extended his years of service to attempt to achieve his goal. He was relocated several times and with each time he seemed to miss out on his opportunity. On the Bell grove #2 L.S.D.( landing ship dry dock) Jack was deployed away from home several months at a time. But, was able to see the entire south Pacific up to point Barrlio Alaska. His crew swept mines and even had a part in testing the atomic bombs. He loved the Navy, but being gone so much took a toll on family life and he decided that family came first. He received his honorable discharge 1956 from the Navy. Jack and Beverly moved back to their home town in Stockton California where they began building their current home which they still reside in today. After the many adventure storied that Jack shared with Beverly he decided to re -visit his Navy stopping ground with his wife(the government paid for all his first trips the second go around was on his dime) . Jacks first Job was electric lighting incorporated aka elsco for 15 years. He joined Schields, Harper Co. were he worked for 20 years selling petroleum products. He then took a job with Jerry Moore petroleum, The Elite IV construction Bagley petroleum He retired many times but , never really quit. All of his business clients became friends for life. Jack had many wonderful qualities he was a true outdoors man, there was nothing he could not repair, he was a beautiful dancer and won many dancing contest. He was a great conversation host and had an opinion about everything and composed wonderful letters to any one that would listen. Jack was A former San Joaquin Delta power squadron member and became commander 1994. Then was part of the Indian guide father at the YMCA for fathers and sons. He was also a youth camp leader. He Cheered our 3 children on at diving events wrestling matches. Former member at St. Paul's United Methodist church. He was a church treasure for many years with in the organization. He was always full of surprises. On our 25th anniversary he had me stand up in church and invite everyone to the renewal of our vows. With assistance from Jody our daughter he had planned a reenactment of our original vows. After two weeks of preparation the ceremony was set and the congregation lady's were shocked because Beverly could wear her original wedding gown. It was a day to remember. Jack was always the most loving man with his generosity and time. Survived by his wife Beverly, daughter Jody ( Les) , Son James (Justine) , Grandson Jim ( Corina) and Joe, ( Stella).Two great grandsons Jayden and Jordan. Many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also extended family from Japan Kanami and Tommy Tominago, Matchi Maramatsu along with Lance the family Dog. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Thursday October 9th from 10-4pm Services are to be held At Rocha's mortuary Friday October 10th at 12:30, 215 South School Street in Lodi (209) 368-5128 Committal will be at Farmington Cemetery. Family will meet after the Committal Family requests its memorial contributions in his memory to the University of the Pacific school of engineering and science, 3601 Pacific avenue Stockton 95211 attention: Steven Howel Or charity of your choice.