John B. (Jack) Stankiewicz
February 23, 1938 ~ December 2, 2008
John B. "Jack" Stankiewicz, Jr., 70, of Weirton, passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at the Acuity Care Hospital in Steubenville, OH. Born February 23, 1938 in Wheeling, WV, he was the son of the late John and Idabel Forse Stankiewicz.
Jack attended Oklahoma State University and the College of Steubenville. Mr. Stankiewicz served as Hancock County Deputy Director of the Office of Emergency Management and assisted his brother in the family printing business, Paper & Press, Ink. He was the Past Director of the Brooke County Ambulance Service, a member of St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Pittsburgh Curling Club, Northern Ohio Valley Area Search and Rescue (NOVASAR), the Colliers Volunteer Fire Department, Steubenville-Weirton Amateur (Ham) Radio Club, Phoenix Society of West Virginia (antique fire apparatus collectors) and the Panhandle Pumpers. He held life memberships in the American Legion Post 10 and the Weirton Heights Volunteer Fire Department where he served as Honorary Life Chief. He was a founding member of the Weirton Area Ambulance & Rescue Squad, Northern Ohio Valley Area Search and Rescue Squad and the Weirton Heights Rescue School. He instructed many fire science classes at local fire schools and community colleges for the National Association of Search and Rescue, R.E.S.A. and the Red Cross. Jack served in the United States Air Force in Japan and the Vietnam War where he received the Air Force Commendation Medal.
Jack is survived by his brother Joe W. Stankiewicz and his wife Diane; his former wife and close friend Linda Halapy Stankiewicz all of Weirton; niece Jo Nicole Rouse and her husband Brandon and nephew Bryan Stankiewicz.
Friends will be received Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, where a Fireman's Memorial Service will be conducted at 6:30 by the Colliers Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral Liturgy with Mass will be celebrated 10AM Friday at St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church. The Reverend Father Dean Borgmeyer will officiate. Interment will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Weirton where Military Services will be conducted by the American Legion Firing Squad, the Weirton Honor Guard and Western Pennsylvania Firefighters Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to NOVASAR, P. O. Box 468, Wheeling, WV 26003 and WAARS, 1305 Pennsylvania Avenue, Weirton, WV 26062.
Funeral Home:
Greco Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV
US 26062
Both personally and from all at MARK-9 SAR, Dallas, our hearts and prayers are with you.
I met Jack on one of the SAR dog lists and always enjoyed his posts. A few years ago, he visited me and we had a great time discussing SAR. He was a truly dedicated SAR volunteer. I am sorry for your loss of his company.
Always tough to lose a great friend who was also a great man. I’m not sure that there are fires or lost person events in heaven but if there are you know Jack will be in charge. It is good to know that his body and his hearing will be restored so that he can follow his passions. Thanks Jack. You taught me much.
Met Jack about 3 years ago when he showed up to take up the sport of curling! It didn’t take long and he was one of our dedicated volunteers – helping to run events, showing others how to curl and even writing articles for our website and newsletter. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to meet Jack. My condolences to family and friends. Sandra McMakin Past President Pittsburgh Curling Club
To Jack’s Family, My deepest condolences from my family, as well as the Pittsburgh Curling Club. Jack was an inspiration to us at the Curling Club and we will miss him dearly. I also enjoyed talking about Indy Car racing with Jack as well. May God grant you comfort in these trying days. Andy Banfield, President Pittsburgh Curling Club
Jack and I have had an interesting relationship. At times he was like a brother or sometimes a father to me, sometimes the roles were reversed…I will miss him. Joe, if there is anything I can do, just call.
As one of the Senior Members of the Pittsburgh Curling Club, Jack provided tremendous inspiration to us all. Even at times when he was ill, he would come out and help to make our curling events a success. He will be missed. We pray the Lord will provide his loved ones with comfort during this very difficult time.
My deepest condolences to the family. I met Jack many years ago and he was such an inspiration to the world of search & rescue. Thank you Jack for your dedication. You will be missed greatly.
As the past president of the Pennsylvania Search and Rescue Council, I had the great fortune to work with Jack when he served as a board member. Jack spent countless hours training Search and Rescue personnel at SAREX and elsewhere. Everyone always enjoyed his presence and will be sadly missed in the SAR community. He was a great man and a one of a kind. We will conduct a search for you (Old Friend) when we all get to our final place. See you then.
Joe and family, You have my deepest sympathy in the loss your brother, brother in law and friend. He was a great teacher and a good ol guy in the neighborhood-even back when he was young! We’ve got lots of fire department and rescue squad memories-You all will be in my prayers-especially throughout the upcoming holidays. Love, Satona Harda
Fair Winds and following seas Jack, we will never forget you. In deepest sympathy Kathy and Danny Holbert BCTSRT
I was so saddened to hear about Jack’s passing. I met him at the Pittsburgh Curling Club. He was always so happy and pleasant and had a great love of curling. I loved that he was keeping active in our club. I missed seeing him around this winter and regret that I didn’t get in touch with him somehow. You have my deepest sympathies and know that Jack was well loved by everyone at the Pittsburgh Curling Club. I’ll miss you Jack.
Dear Linda and Family, Deepest sympathy from the Simich’s. What can one say about Jack, when you met him you liked him. He was a good guy and will be greatly missed. May his memory be eternal.
Dear Joe & Family my deepest condolences. I’ve known Jack alomost all of my life and he was a great inspiration to me as well as may others in the Fire,EMS & Rescue fields. Jack touched may lives and had a hand in producing many who went on into the profession – career and volunteer. He left his mark on this world. Not only was he a good teacher, he was a leader. I’m sure many lifes were saved by him and because of him. One of the funniest memories I have with Jack is when he was teaching a Standard First Aid Class and I was, 12 years old at the time, in his class. Jack was teaching OB and was joking about walking the pregnant lady in labor and I took him serious, What did I know, I was 12, Jack got such a kick out of it! Well Jack you’ve answered your last alarm, your job is done, now rest in peace and watch over your brothers on Earth. Thanks for everything!
Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the family. May God walk with you all in your time of need. Jack we will see you on the other side my friend. We will miss the little training tips you have shared with us over the years sir. God bless you Jack. Regards Donna Bosch President Search and Recovery Dogs of Green Country Oklahoma
I had the honor of meeting him late in his life. I found Jack to be a knowledgeable and caring man who made valuable contributions to the Search and Rescue community. May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face.And rains fall soft upon your fields.And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
We will miss you Jack. I will be thinking of you everytime I pick up a compass and map.
Thank you for your wonderful contributions to the search and rescue community. There are countless people alive today because of the lives you touched with your educational programs, and that legacy will continue through the work of your students, passing along your great teachings. The world is a poorer place without you, Jack. Joey Nickischer Chief New York Search and Rescue
Memories, memories and all good, from well hosted seminars that Jack was behind, to a class I taught myself for the team, at Jack’s request, overnighting in Jack’s guest room above the garage, meeting again at SAREX and other venues, always a pleasure. You will be missed Jack. 73, KD8CJF, now SK (Silent Key), from one ham radio operator to another, from one K9 handler to another, from one searcher to another. My deepest condolences to the family. Amir K9CHP
Jack You were one of my earliest mentors in the SAR community. I learned from you my skills, compassion,and the best of all your friendship. I will miss you. Pepper Broad W.E.S.T., M.A.R.G., SQSAR
I met Jack when my husband decided to join a local SAR team. We both went to some meetings and some trainings but my husbands work interferred. However, I had the time and I enjoyed the people who I met. My first event was FUNSAR with Jack at Sherrard school. This was the first time I had ever been camping. I did not even know how to set up a tent. However, I learned. He would give us challenges…and let us make our way…always cheering us on. He was a mentor when I did not even know I needed one, who became a friend. I still dont know what happened to cause our friendship to form, but form it did. Even though it was only for a short time that I knew him, he will be sadly missed for his quick wit, humor, wry way at looking at life…and his zest for living life. Jack knew how to live life. Everything was viewed as an adventure…to be met with zest and zeal. I imagine he is on another adventure. One that he will enjoy from now on with all of his friends, past and present. I can see him waiting patiently…”what took you so long to find me?” will be his quip. Then he will just smile and go about his way. The best thing I learned from his friendship…is to aspire to be like him. Joy Reese NOVASAR
Andy & I met Jack at a search dog class we were teaching. Jack said he wasn’t a very good dog handler, but he was. I enjoyed his sense of humor and all that he gave to the search and rescue community. Marcia & Andy Rebmann
Jack, you meant the world to us and we are going to miss you so much. You are one of the greatest men we have ever known. Thank you so much for all that you taught us in NOVASAR. We will remember you often and are looking forward to that day when we shall meet you in Heaven. How was that field by the Rainbow Bridge where you met Rudy? Did you see Neenah? Jack, we love you. Lois and Ken
I never met Jack but heard a lot about him and his professionalism. The SAR and fire communities has lost a great teacher and friend. Dennis Chaney Mountaineer Area Rescue Group & Cassvile Fire Dept
My deepest condolences to Jack’s family and many friends. I had the pleasure of meeting Jack seven years ago when I took my first NASAR class. I enjoyed reading his comments on the list. Jack has gone QRT for the final time. His loss will be felt by all. 73’s Jack Larry Raskin TROTSAR, MSAR WB3DAJ
Dear Joe & Family my deepest condolences. I have so many memories of Jack. The countless hours we spent at Gilson Ave working on projects or testing some hair brain ideas to make our jobs safer. Jack was so inspirational to so many people especialy thoughs members that traveled through the doors of Weirton Heights Fire Dept. Jack was able to touch so many lifes through his so many ways. To you Chief Stankiewicz we salute you one last time as we sound your final alarm, rest in peace and keep a watch over us. God Bless and thanks for being apart of our lives.
While I never met the self-professed “Ol’ SAR Buzzard” I truly enjoyed his perspective and his injection of humanity – and humor – into our profession’s discussions. Jack made SAR so much more enjoyable, and that translates into more experienced, trained and capable SAR personnel. A fitting tribute indeed; one that will be carried henceforth by all of us that had the privilege of knowing him. Jack, we will miss you and try to carry on. Howard Paul Alpine Rescue Team, Evergreen, Colo. Colorado SAR Board National Assn. for Search and Rescue
Our deepest sympathy goes to the Stankiewicz family. Jack was an amazing man who was an inspiration to everyone. He will be greatly missed by everyone in the fire services!
My condolences to Jack’s family. I remember the first SAR training I attended in Tyler County and how musch I learned from Jack. We have lost a great person and a one of a kind instructor.
Jack was clearly a devoted public servant! His contribution to Search and Rescue in WV will persist long into the future. He will be missed and remembered fondly!
I’m sorry to hear about Jack. He was a great leader in the SAR world and he was incredible at reading people and creating fun ways for them to learn. Take the two shy necomers to NOVASAR and how he made them go meet people at SAREX by making them get signatures of the names that Jack gave them, so they would learn networking and how other folks do things. I hope you all can carry on in his footsteps and when you get stuck or are trying to figure out how to help people – just think WWJD – what would Jack do and he will be smiling and proud. My sincere sympathy to Jack/s family and NOVASAR and to the people whose lives Jack touched. I will miss him – his humor, his emails, his zest for life, the way he busted my chops for being a K9 handler and how he always wanted to try new things, like curling :). He was an inspiration. Linda Murphy Central Jersey Technical Rescue
Eight years ago Jack taught a class I attended in which I learned more about SAR in several days than I probably learned the rest of the year. He was the epitome of a wise instructor wanting to share his knowledge with a new crop of “kids”. His deep personal knowledge and commitment to sharing that with others made a lasting impression. Plus, his quirky brand of humor made everything really fun. We will miss you, Jack.
It’s hard to imagine a time before the Ol’ SAR Buzzard. Jack was a true professional, and a gentle, compassionate friend. The only thing he did not take seriously was himself. I take the blame for turning Jack, briefly, into a dog handler after he spent so many years ribbing us all for our collective foibles. He was the perfect match for my former foster dog Rudy, and it pleased me so much that they had each other’s companionship, if only for a few years. I miss you already, Jack. Heather Houlahan Allegheny Mountain Rescue Group
Hello everyone, just wanted to thank everyone for your kind words, shared memories, and keeping my family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you, Bryan
Dear Joe and Family, What else can be said after reading all of the heart warming condolences? Jack was a charismatic person that people flocked to just to learn from him, ask questions, or to get his opinion. I was fortunate enough to know Jack most of my life, from the Weirton Area Ambulance and Rescue Squad to the Fire Service. I have been privileged enough to take classes from Jack as well as teach with him. You will find none better than Jack! I will miss Jack, but I know I am a better person for having had the opportunity to be mentored by him and to be his friend. I will keep your family in my heart and my prayers.
Jack was the one that helped me get started in Search and Rescue work and became a dear friend to me. I remember all the times he hid for my dogs and tried to out smart them. We always seemed to get in trouble with mud puddles during trainings. He even snapped pictures of me when I fell into a deep 4 wheeler water filled mud hole Jan 1st about 5 years ago. We had a good laugh over that one.
Jack’s posts to SAR discussion forums were always timely, witty, and spot-on accurate. His level-headed approach to challenging issues will be greatly missed. God speed, Jack, and warmest prayers and condolences to the family in the difficult days ahead.
Great job Jack, you will be missed Rick and Darlene
I met Jack through the discussion lists about SAR dogs and he always had a kind word for me, sharing his info and offering help. I’m far away and there’s a lot of people in those lists, but he was one of the ‘important’ people for me. I’m very sorry but I’m sure I’ll always remember him.
Dear family and friends of Jack: I had the pleasure to work with Jack for many years while he was with Regional Medical Services, Inc. He was a great person and always had the best interests of EMS in mind. God bless Jack and may he rest in peace.
Sad to hear of the great loss. Proud to have had the opportunity to work with, and always learn something from Jack. Impassioned to serve others. God Bless You Jack. Thank you for being you.
I met Jack 7 years ago at Pennsylvania’s SAREX with his faithful friend Rudy. He was truly an honorable man – and taught me most of what I know about finding my way through the woods. He will surely be missed. Now he and Rudy can run together.
Dear Joe and Diane, I extend my sincerest and deepest condolences. I’m so sorry for your loss. Take care and God bless. Jody Trupiano
Just a month ago today I spoke with Jack on the phone regarding his desire to continue as a FUNSAR Instructor for NASAR. Although in the hospital, he was eager to teach again when able and share his wealth of SAR knowledge with others. I thank him for all that he has done for SAR and for NASAR. Rest in peace sweet Jack.
Jack was one of the best teachers, always eager to pass his knowledge on. Many of our members have been students in Jack’s classes and his selfless inspiration to serve will live on in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Jack and I go “way back” in EMS and SAR. Jack was a pioneer and contributed greatly to the success of both these these efforts in West Virginia. I don’t think Jack ever received the recognition he deserved for his efforts but praise didn’t matter to Jack. He derived satisfaction in knowing he helped. He was a professional, a gentleman, a compassionate and caring individual and a dear friend. His absence will be missed by all of us still carrying on the work but his memory and inspiring example will be shared by us all.
Please accept my condolences to the family. Although I did not know Jack personally, anyone viewing his gifts to mankind would have great respect for him and his family. I also have found out what life is all about in helping others through volunteering in many ways. May God Bless You All!
To the Family of my dearest John Stankiewicz, I am truley sorry for the loss of John, he was a very dear friend of mine, and i was also his Barber for many years now, he was a wonderfull man, and i will miss him dearly, John was one of the most thoughfullest, and caring person i have ever met. we had a very close friendship together. and im sorry i won’t be able to attend the services, i will be in the hospital having surgery, but my thoughts and prayers will be with all of you, John is in a better place now, he’s one of our little angles! I know he is at peace now and out of pain. God bless all of you. I will truely miss him so much, Love always, Johns friend forever, Jody
He was my evaluator for Sartech III many years ago and a helluva nice guy. Very experienced in search and rescue and so fun to be around! Jack was a true gentleman, and will be sorely missed by all that knew him. God speed, Jack, and say hi to Daisy and Zena for me!
Jack was such a great guy he is truly going to be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates. Thank you Jack for being a friend!
My prayers go out to all the family during your time of grief.
God Speed Jack. I knew Jack through e-mail and websites only, I learned allot from him that way. Take Care. Ted Ted E. Lohr, EMT-P N9WDS NASAR SAR Tech II Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Lt Col. Graduate – National Search and Rescue School K9 Medic Life Member AVEC Search & Rescue IN-TF-7 Madison County SkyWarn Member: NASAR #123688 & NSS #51516 Owner SAR-IL & http://www.search-rescue.net sartech2@gmail.com http://www.search-rescue.net “Mission First, People Always†“The Mission Comes First” “Train as if Lives Depend on it…. Because They DO!!!”
Dear Stankiewicz family, Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. I met Jack 34 years ago, while working as a new RN at the old Weirton General ER, he was a teacher first and a real charachter, always joking. I enjoyed working with him. He will truly be missed by a community he gave so much to. May God hold and comfort you at this time.
The passing of Jack “The Old SAR Buzzard” is a loss to all in SAR. I only knew him from his posts on SAR discussion lists and through some private emails. Prayers and sympathy to his family, friends and SAR Team members. Vi Shaffer K9 Specialty Detection Texas
Joe, Diane, and family, I was shocked to hear of Jack’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Jack and I spent numerous hours together in the early days at the WHVFD and WAARS. He was a tremendous educator and that is what he loved to do. I’m sure he left an indelible mark on thousands over the years and he will be missed by many. Jack, you achieved what many in your profession only dream. It was great to have worked with you.
Jack lived the life of a great man and has left us a legacy of giving to others. He will be remembered.
I am very sad this day, learning of Jack’s passing. I will remember Jack as a man of great character and dedication. In my early years in the fire service, he was for me a great teach and a great inspiration. He was always there to support and encourage me. Just this past spring he visited me at the Upper Ohio Valley Fire School. That gesture moved me greatly. While his movement was slower, his wit and passion for the fire service was as strong as I’d ever seen it. A great loss, yet a great legacy left behind in so many pupils. My sincerest condolences to all his family an close friends. Dr. Richard B. Gasaway Fire Chief, Roseville, MN One of Jack’s MANY students
My sincerest condolences to Jack’s family and to all who knew him, as he had a way of making us all feel like his “family”. Jack was a man of extreme integrity and character who was passionate about his work. He was a mentor who instilled his values into his students and that is why there are so many of us that have remained in the health care business. Thanks Jack, my mentor – my friend. I will miss you
I extend my condolences to the entire Stankiewicz family. I will always remember Jack as a leader and educator. His unselfish service to the community brought honor to his name.
The world just lost a good one… Rest In Peace my friend….
I first met Jack in the 1970s when the Brooke County Ambulance Service was first taking shape. I had the privilege of working with him and for him during those early years. I knew Jack as a co-worker, teacher, leader and first and foremost a gentleman. To Jack’s family please take comfort in the comments posted from around the world made here. I can see he never changed. My sincere condolences to Jack’s family.
We are so saddened by the passing of our dear friend Jack. We met Jack through NOVASAR and had the pleasure of forming a great friendship with him. We recently received a call from Jack telling us that he was ill and in the hospital so Bill and I decided to visit Jack on Saturday…he was happy to see us but even more happy that his firetruck and bagpipes made it in the Weirton Christmas Parade…he was making phone call after phone call asking his friends if they saw his firetruck in the parade. When we were getting ready to leave, his last words to us were “What a Beautiful Day, I’m so Happy.” God Bless Jack, I know your at peace now… Bill and Rosie Buxton
While helping decorate Jack’s fire truck I could only remind myself that I need to continue to be strong. This is for Jack and the way he wanted it. Jack touched all whom he came across-left a special impression on each and every one of us. He had such strong passion in all that he did. To the Stankiewicz Family and Linda, my heart and prayers go out to you! Keep the memories alive and be thankful for the time you had to spend with him. He will be with you always; but as your special angel watching over you. Please do not hesitate to call if you need anything! Love Erica
I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jack while I was the Director at EMSOR…He was a fine man and I will miss him…
I first met Jack when I joined the WHVFD about 36 years ago and even though that was a half a lifetime ago for Jack, he was already a legend in the fire and rescue service. When I look back on all the things he accomplished in his life it is nothing short of amazing. I was just a “wet behind the ears” 18 year old kid when I joined the fire service and one of the first things I did was look around to see who stood out as the person to learn from if I wanted to succeed at being a fireman and that person without a doubt was Jack. I learned many things from this great man and I consider it an honor and priviledge to have served with him and to call him friend. Rest well JB you’ve more than earned it.
To the family of Jack Stankiewicz I send my deepest condolences for his loss. Love will always endure and love will hold him in memory close to you. I knew Jack through the PCC. He was such a kind, gentle, fun person…and a wicked curler. I will miss him.
Ripley Fire Dept. would like to express there condolences to the Stankiewicz family. We have many found memories of Jack from fire schools. You will be in our prayers. God Bless. Ripley Fire Dept.
The Marmet Fire Dept. would like to express our condolences to the Stankiewicz family. Members of our department have many fond memories of Jack. I personally have known Jack for many years, I had the opportunity to sit on various state-wide EMS committees, and worked with Jack at various fire/ems conferences and competitions across our great state. We have truly lost one of the great legends of fire/EMS. God Bless, Jerry L. McGhee Chief
To Jack’s family, my heartfelt condolences for your loss. I had the privilege of attending a FUNSAR course taught by Jack when I first started in SAR. His competence and kindness inspired me to pursue SAR and train to the highest standards. I have fond memories of sitting with Jack and his pup Rudy chatting about all manner of things – such a gentle and warm man! He will be missed in the SAR community.
Jack was a friend, colleague and confidante. I will miss his friendship, sage counsel, quick wit and his willingness to share his expertise freely. Everyone who knew him is a better person due to his influence on their life. Jack was “Instructor Emeritus” whose impact on emergency response training is immeasurable and will continue on forever. He will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor and privilege of his friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with the Stankiewicz family and all who mourn Jack’s passing.
To Jack’s family, and all of his many, many friends, my sympathy and condolences. He was a wise, kind and caring man in a world that has become, on all too many occasions, rash, rude and uncaring. He was unique, and can never be replaced, but his training and mentorship of so many in the search and rescue field mean that he will not be forgotten. Those he nurtured and influenced will carry on his work and maintain his memory.
I first met Jack when I joined Colliers VFD 3 years ago. Jack touched everyone he came near, with his commitment, nohow, leadership, education and sincerity! I remember many fun nights going through pictures or jack and Lynn “back in the day†(as he would say it) My hole family are so saddened by the passing, and the hole that he left behind for all his family, EMS and Fire included too! The loss of jack is a great one, yet a great legacy left behind in will live forever Sincerely, The Baker Family
Words can’t express my sorrow at the loss of my friend Jack for he has touched my life in so many ways. He was an enormous influence in my career and volunteer work. But, the lessons were so much more than knots and rope or hose and nozzles. Through the countless evolutions, campfire conversations, hikes, and classes, he taught me lessons about life. These are the ones I will remember forever. I offer my condolence to Joe and his family, to Linda, and to all who held Jack close in their hearts. Jack, Thank you so much for everything. I wish you Godspeed on your journey. We will never forget you.
Although I never met Jack face to face, I have had the intense fortune and pleasure of “knowing” Jack via the internet for upwards of 12 years. Jack responded to a question/comment that I had regarding Search and Rescue so many years ago and our friendship took off and flourished as I think happens with those that knew Jack. Through thousands of jokes, updates on Rudy his rescued dog and quips and questions regarding SAR in our respective areas of the world, I learned what a kind, caring and wonderful person Jack was. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and have no doubt that Jack is catching up and forging ahead with new projects from the other side. Godspeed Jack. Kim Gilmore Flathead County Search & Rescue NW Montana, USA
I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a great community figure as Jack was. He was always there to help everyone that needed it and taught me what I knew about being an EMT and the great sacrifices that he made were tremendous. He was always there for you no matter when you would call on him and he will never be forgotten. My sympathies go out especially to Joe and Diane as well as their children Brian and Jo Nicle and her husband. Know that my prayers and thoughts are with you all. God bless you and know that Jack is now taking care of his heavenly friends! We all know him to do that!! Mary
I too am deeply saddened by the news of Jack’s passing. I remember him begiining at Brooke County Ambulance and driving the little AMC gremlin. Wow the memories that come flooding back…Weirton VFD, going to paramedic school together, rescue school and all the get togethers. To his family I am sorry for your loss as I know how much you mean to him. God Bless! I know that heaven has another paramedic/firefighter! He will be missed by many.
Jack I will miss you!! You were the person that we all long to be just like!! You will forever have a special place in my heart!! Love to you always, Tracy Hancock County 911 Director
What else can I say that hasn’t been said already. Jack was my mentor, friend and colleague. The Ohio Vally will never know the true loss to this community in his natural leadership abilities his diplomatic way of calming any situation, and his passion for his love of men and country. He is survived by a wonderful family who stood by him in all his adversities and fights I commend all of you.If thier is anything I can ever do for you it would be the least I can do since Jack had givin me so much. He gave me the courage, strength and power to never give up just do it, always look to the future never live in the past but most of all be yourself. Thank you Jack for all the Love you have given everyone. Sleep well We will miss you. Love Danielle
I remember Jack for his enthusiasim for SAR. He was always encouraging and positive for new and older folks invoved in SAR. He will be missed. Janelle Hideg Midwest K9 Search Unit President Ohio Federation of K9 Search Teams
I first met Jack when I joined NOVASAR. We became friends almost immediately. I learned so many things from him,a lot above and beyond SAR. Jack was more like part of the family than just a friend. I will miss him a lot,and the world is a smaller place without him. Happy Trails,Jack. Smokey and I will someday take up your track again. We love you Jack.
The Stankiewicz Family – You may remember better as Mary Kay Tuchalski. Jack remembered from the time I slept through the air horn! As a young teenager Jack inspired me with his dedication. I learned more about life from him. Starting in 1976, Jack was a great mentor. Just recently, I had an opportunity to be his nurse at Trinity West. I was able to thank him for all his guidance & encouragement. Jack helped mold me into my Nursing career. Prayers to comfort all your family.
Jack was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a fire service icon and I am certainly a better person for having the honor of knowing him. If I can be half the person he was, then I will be in good shape. You have answered your final call. You served the community with courage and dignity that cannot be matched. Thank you for everything you taught me through the years. My deepest sympathy and prayers to your family. God Bless Always
I wanted to send our condolences to your team on the passing of Jack. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Your brothers and sisters in SAR,
Jack you will be greatly missed I worked with you for many years with the Red Cross If I needed you to teach a class you were there, I will always remember our ambulance run and all of the fun at the Squad . no more run or treaching so rest in peace and God be with your family Worlds Greatest. Mary Ann
Joe, Diane and Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. I had many a good time with Jack and learned quite a lot while we were in the WHVFD. I am sure he will be missed by a lot of people who he mentored and taught about helping others. Tim
Jack was truly a great friend and teacher. He will be missed.
I REMEMBERED CHIEF STANKIEWICZ FROM MY EARLY DAYS IN WHVFD WHEN HE WAS ONE OF THE BEST FIRE CHIEF’S IN THE OHIO VALLEY. CHIEF STANKIEWICZ YOU WILL BE MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN IN THE HEARTS OF EVERBODY THAT YOU CAME IN CONTACT WITH IN THE EMS, FIRE AND SEARCH AND RESCUE FIELD. MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO THE STANKIEWICZ FAMILY.
I am just getting word about Jack’s passing as I was at the National Fire Academy and had no Internet access until now. I am so sorry I missed him….words cannot express the sorrow for the loss of my amazing, good friend Jack for he has touched my life in so many ways. If it were not for Jack, I would not be where I am today!! His influence on my life led me to become a better person in so many ways. He taught me so many invaluable lessons in life, fire science, rope rescue, and NOVASAR. And our fire science classes, they will never be forgotten….we had so many great times! I offer my condolence to Joe and his family, to Linda and to all who knew Jack. We lost a great man and a very good friend. Jack, thank you so much for being YOU and all you gave to me to make me a better person. I wish you Godspeed on your new journey. We will never forget you! Debbie Mertz
Dear Joe, Diane and children…I am so sorry to hear about Jack..he was so loved and will be so missed! This poem reminds me of a man like Jack. When I come to the end of the road..and the sun has set for me..I want no rites in a gloom filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not for long And not with your head bowed low. Remember all that we once shared. Miss me-but let me go. For this is a journey That we all must take And each must go alone. Its’s all part of the Master’s plan. A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart. Go to some friends we know and bury your sorrows in Doing Good Deeds. Miss me-but let me go. I love you guys!
Dear Joe and Dianne, I am so sorry to hear of the passing on of Jack. He was such a beloved and humble man and a great teacher, and will surely be remembered by all those that were touched by him. I regret not being able to make it to the funeral home…but my prayers will be with you and Jack. I know that he is up there in heaven teaching fire safety etc. to all those there with him! …Sam
I am so sorry for the loss of Jack. He gave me my first job inspecting ambulances! He had a lot of faith in a young gal at that time! He was a true teacher. The tribute looked beautiful and, I am sorry I could not attend. I am sure there will be an ache in the heart of many many friends
Dear Linda and Family~ I am so sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. I met him back in 1998 and trained with him when I lived in Ohio. He certainly was a character and he really loved working with my beloved Kira who is a belgian malinois now in her 11th year of life. She loved to find Jack and he taught us so much. If I was there I’d give you all a HUGE HUG and KIRA would lick all of you too. He will be missed. Love and Prayers to all. I feel blessed to have met him and to have worked with him in my early years of SAR. God Speed to all of you, Helena and Kira