Shepard Settlement was Jack’s home for over 80 years and, as the unofficial “Mayor”, Jack was the host to many dances, picnics and meetings for all to gather. Social hour in the barn was all day, every day, as Jack entertained friends, neighbors and strangers with stories, songs and inventions to fix any problem. Jack pulled off some elaborate pranks and all who knew him had a good laugh with him.
A graduate of Marcellus Schools, Jack made his living as owner/operator of Burns Truck Service and, with his father Ed, ran a snowmobile dealership for years. Jack lived a life of adventure, traveling from the Adirondacks to Alaska. Family vacations were filled with unpredictable road trips in the motorhome where Jack taught his children than the journey was far more fun that the destination.
Like his father, Jack’s lifelong dream was to own and fly airplanes. When not in the air, Jack loved to be in the woods hunting and fishing with his buddies, or volunteering at the Sabattis Scout Reservation. As a member of the CNY Bluegrass Association, Jack effortlessly played a dozen instruments and loved playing Friday nights at the American Legion.
Services at Shepard Settlement Cemetery will be private due to COVID-19. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Contributions may be made to SAVES Skaneateles.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.