Jack Ritchie McCurdy, of Elmhurst, IL, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by his loving family and wife of 66 years, Joanne McCurdy, née Kutsus. Jack was a devoted father to Michael and Michelle; proud grandfather of Jake, Rose, Haley and the late Brendan; and dear brother of Mary Jane McKearney and the late Walter McCurdy.
Jack graduated in 1955 from Bradley University as a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity before his career as a leader at Dictaphone Pitney Bowes Corporation in Chicago, IL. As a member of the US Army’s 8th Infantry, Jack served his country honorably during a tour of duty in Germany. A man of strong faith, Jack was a longtime member of Christ Church in Oak Brook, IL. The only thing bigger than Jack’s size 16 feet was his heart, especially in the presence of animals.
Jack’s life was filled with traveling and adventures, and he spent his retirement with family in Door County, WI, or exploring the world on his own and with friends. Jack could be found walking across England coast to coast with Country Walkers, living with Eskimos in Alaska, swimming in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, completing Astronaut Training Camp, visiting a US outpost in Antarctica, repeatedly climbing the Swiss Alps, or traveling to places like Russia, France, Italy, Scandinavia, the US deserts and the Rocky Mountains. Jack would want us to honor his memory by enjoying every day as he did and remembering to “control the controllables.”
Visitation will be Thursday, April 29, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 am funeral service at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road (½ mile North of Saint Charles Road), in Elmhurst, IL. Following the visitation and prayer service, Jack’s family will gather privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Elmhurst Walk-In Ministry, 125 West Church Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
Rob Schwager
My condolences and prayers go out to Jack’s family. During my earlier years with Dictaphone in Milwaukee, Jack’s larger than life presence, warm heart and natural leadership were a great influence upon me as well as generations of managers over his long and successful career. The example he set for young managers as well as his thoughtful bits of advice were a tremendous asset to the company. I think often of Jack’s response when I’d ask him how he is doing – – in a booming voice and without exception I would hear – – “Terrific!” Jack was a wonderful man who also set a great example of how to live a balanced, full and exciting post-retirement life. He will be missed.
Rob Schwager (former Dictaphone CEO)
Mark Nelson
My wife Karen and I were truly saddened by the news of Jack’s passing. Your family has our deepest sympathies.
We’re including you all in our prayers.
Mark and Karen Nelson
Highland, IN
Elizabeth Coffman
We are thinking of your family, the importance of good fathers, and shall not forget Jack’s suggestion to “control the controllables”.
Much love and condolences—
Elizabeth and Ted