Jack F. C. Lee

Born on Nov. 9,1928, in Mariasville, PA, Jack was the son of Howard Kenneth and Esther (McGinnis) Lee. Raised in Clarion, Pennsylvania, Jack graduated from Clarion High School in 1946, and his educational journey was just beginning. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Clarion State Teachers College (now Clarion University of Pennsylvania) in 1950 and a Master of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Pittsburgh in 1968. His pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there; he continued his education through the National Science Foundation, always striving to better himself.

Jack’s dedication to service was evident early in his life. He enlisted during the Korean War in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1954, where he earned the rank of Aviation Ordnance Airman. Stationed on the CVS 130 Mindoro in Quonset Point, Rhode Island, Jack took charge of handling ammunition and instructing others in the critical skills of shooting, both on a range and in trap and skeet shooting.

Upon returning to civilian life, Jack dedicated himself to teaching. He began his career at Oliver High School, later teaching at Pittsburgh Standard Evening Night School and Pittsburgh’s WQED (TV), where he led science classes. His long tenure with the Baldwin-Whitehall School District in Pittsburgh was marked by his commitment to students and sharing his love of Biology. He spent many summers teaching students in the Brentwood Summer School Program. Jack’s legacy in the classroom spanned decades and impacted countless students.

In addition to his work in education, Jack was a proud member for 34 years of the James Uber Post 489 of the American Legion in Ludlow, PA, where he also served as Service Officer for many years. Through this role, he continued his lifelong dedication to service, offering guidance and support to fellow veterans and their families.

Throughout his life, Jack was also deeply involved in his faith. He was an active member of several Presbyterian churches, including Richland Presbyterian in Clarion County, Whitehall Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, and, in his retirement, the First Presbyterian Church in Warren, Pennsylvania. Jack served on numerous church committees, including as an Elder, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Christian Education, always putting his faith into action.

Jack’s personal life was marked by his loving marriage to Delores A. Johnson, whom he wed on August 11,1962, at Moriah Lutheran Church in Ludlow, PA. Their union, which spanned 62 years, was founded on love and strong Christian values. Jack and Dee raised two daughters, Julia Wrobleski (Timothy) and Carrie Duckett (James), who, along with their children, were the center of Jack’s world. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Carlee and Jack Wrobleski, and Ryan and Sean Duckett; each grandchild held a special place in his heart.

Jack’s passion for life extended far beyond his work and family. He was an avid traveler, and with Dee by his side, they visited all but 2 states, but his heart always found peace in the warmth of Arizona during the winter months. Nature, gardening, wood carving, and reading were among his greatest pleasures, and he was a member of various organizations, including the PSEA, NEA, NSTA, NRA, Wildcat Park, and a “Friend” of both the Kane and Whitehall libraries.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Norma (Lee) Bowersox and Shirley (Lee) Long, and his beloved daughter, Julia (Lee) Wrobleski. He is survived by his wife, Dee; his daughter Carrie (James) Duckett; son-in-law Timothy Wrobleski and wife Patricia (Cass) Wrobleski; grandchildren Carlee, Jack, Ryan, and Sean; and numerous nieces and nephews who he cherished dearly.

Jack’s life was a beautiful journey of learning, teaching, and loving. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know him, but his legacy will live the countless lives he touched with his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others.

A private family memorial service will be held to honor Jack’s life at the convenience of the family at a later date. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this time. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc. has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Monarch Joint Venture at monarchjointventure.org, The Nature Conservancy at nature.org, or the First Presbyterian Church, 300 Market St., Warren, PA, 16365.