John W. (Jack) Watters

MARION - John W. (Jack) Watters age 59, of Marion died unexpectedly but peacefully at his home Sunday, April 22, 2007.

He was born Nov. 3, 1947, in Marion, Ohio, to the late Eunice (Dennis) and John W. Watters Sr.

Jack graduated from Marion Catholic High School in 1965.  He attended Christian Brothers College in Memphis, Tenn., Toledo University, and graduated from the University of Deleware in Newark, Del., earning a BS Degree in psychology.  He was in the U.S. Navy from 1968 to 1974 and served his country in Vietnam.

In 1970, he married Dawn E. Rowland who survives in Marion.

Also surviving are a daughter, Kim Watters, Cincinnati; and four sisters, Peggy (Bob) Fragale, Loraine (John) Hix, and Lynne (Joe) Metzger, all of Marion, and Eileen Watters from Delaware, Ohio.  Jack also leaves 18 nieces and nephews who admired him and will miss him.  He is also survived by 13 great nieces and nephews.

Jack was a member of St. Mary Parish, Eye to Eye Support Group, PERI and Hands Across America as the local coordinator.  He volunteered for FEMA, Big Brothers Big Sisters in their Bowl for Kid's Sake Program, and was a gallon blood donor for the Red Cross.

Jack touched many lives.  He was the driving force behind the establishment of the original Free Medical Clinic in Marion, serving on the steering committee and later as treasurer of the board of directors.  In addition, he was actively involved in the beginnings of Turning Point in Marion.  Jack was employed as a social worker at Marion Correctional Institution for five years and went to work at Job and Family Services, retiring from there after 21 years of dedicated service.  His courageous battle with Mulltiple Sclerosis inspired many including his family as he joined them in the annual MS Walk.  As his mobility became more limited, his patience and determination grew and he became a hero to all who knew him.

Family will reveive friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today, April 25, 2007, at Gunder/Hall & Folk Funeral Directors with parish prayers at 4 p.m.  A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 26, 2007 at St. Mary Church with the Rev. Father Michael Nimocks officiating.  Internment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery with Marion County United Vetertans Council performing military honors.

In liew of flowers donations may be made to National MS Society, Ohio Buckeye Chapter 6155 Rock Side Road Suite 202, Independence, OH 44131.  mswalk@nmsoha.org. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family at GunderHallFolk@aol.com