John “Jack” Wadhams: Jack, born in Brockport, the son of S. Edwin “Ted” and Gladys (Hoch) Wadhams, peacefully passed away on October 20, 2020 at the age of 84. He and his wife of 61 years, LouAnne (Rogers), moved to Port Charlotte, Florida in 1986.
After high school, Jack attended Oswego State College to earn his Bachelor’s Degree and continued at Brockport State College to complete his Master’s Degree. He taught Industrial Arts at Kendall Central High School for 30 years and was also the director of the Mask and Wig Drama Club. Jack was an officer in the Brockport Police Department and the NY State Parks Police and retired at age 80 as a Code Enforcement Officer for the NY State Park’s Western Region based out of Letchworth State Park.
Jack was a member of the Silsby Hose Company of the Brockport Fire Dept. and a charter member of the Ambulance Corps. He served as Master twice as a member of the F & AM Monroe Masonic Lodge #173, and was a member of Kendall Social Lodge #713. He was a Boy Scout leader for Troop #111.
Jack was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, teaching all children through example to respect all people, be kind and generous and to do the right thing. He enjoyed all theatre, cooking and woodworking and was an avid Yankees and Cleveland Browns fan.
He is survived by his high school sweetheart, LouAnne and their children: Mark (Jennifer) and their children Ella and Evan; Beth (Jay) Petrino and their daughter, Sienna; Jill Nine (Ken Van Epps) and her children Kaitlyn and Eric; and Jodi Suares (Ron Middleton), her son Tyler; friend Antonio Suares III; as well as cousins and many special friends.
A Memorial Service was held November 7 at the First Presbyterian Church, Port Charlotte, Florida. A Celebration of Life is being planned but the date and time is yet to be determined. Donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice (www.tidewellhospice.org), Brockport Exempts (248 West Ave, Brockport NY 14420) or to a charity of one’s choice in his memory.
We are creating a Memory Book and would welcome any comments or experiences you might have in remembering Jack. Please send them to 545 Meridan Avenue NW, Port Charlotte, FL 33952.
