Jack Haerr Obituary

Jack Edward Haerr, 75, of Fort Myers Beach, FL and formerly of Elmhurst, IL, passed away at Hope Hospice at HealthPark in Fort Myers surrounded by his loving wife and children on March 17, 2011. Jack was born September 2, 1935 in Chicago, IL to Stanley and Mary Margaret "Marie" Haerr. In high school, he began his work career at a company which made sugar cones for ice cream shops. At 16, he began working in the printing trade as a Stereotyper, and worked first and longest for a Chicago printing company no longer in business, and in later years for a variety of companies including the Chicago Sun-Times and the Daily Racing Form. While at the Daily Racing Form, Jack served as a Union Representative. Jack grew Christmas trees in WI and sold them in Elmhurst, IL for 27 years. He also operated Gloria Jean's Coffee franchises in the Chicagoland area, including one in the Merchandise Mart. After moving to Fort Myers Beach, Jack served as President of the Estero Cove Condo Association. Throughout his life, Jack enjoyed playing bocce, pitching horseshoes, fishing, golfing, playing cards, writing poems, singing, coaching little league for his sons, giving funny speeches at family weddings, traveling, and celebrating his favorite holiday - St. Patrick's Day - the day of his death. Jack is preceded in death by his brother, George Haerr, and brother-in-law, Tom Patton. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55½years, Joann; children, David Haerr (Joan) of Glasgow, KY, Sue Hoffmann (Jay) of Lake Bluff, IL and Bill Haerr (Diane) of Lake in the Hills, IL; grandchildren, Bryan Haerr of Glasgow, KY, Joe Hoffmann (Casey) of West Lafayette, IN, Chris Hoffmann of Chicago, IL, and Amy Hoffmann of Hempstead, NY; and great-grandson, Will Hoffmann of West Lafayette, IN; sister, Joyce Patton of Prospect Heights, IL; brother, Ron Haerr of El Cajon, CA; sister-in-law, Doris Pizzillo of Huntley, IL; and many nieces, nephews, and their children. To celebrate Jack's life, the family will host a private party at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in Jack's name to Hope Hospice (Lee County, FL) at 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 www.hopehospice.org (please indicate Lee County, FL in the "additional comments" if donating online.) Condolences may be offered at www.nationalcremation.com.