About This Memory Space
This page was created for John Jack A. Dearth's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor John Jack A. Dearth's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew John Jack A. Dearth. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
John A. 'Jack' Dearth crafted a vibrant life marked by steadfast faith, professional drive, and a passion for family bonds and community involvement, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.
Born in Bloomington, Illinois, to Larry and Susan 'Betty' (Rice) Dearth, Jack launched into a dynamic journey from his early days. A proud alumnus of Trinity High School's class of 1959, he pursued higher education with fervor, securing a business degree from Illinois State University followed by advanced master's degrees in business administration and human development counseling, emphasizing industrial psychology, from the University of Illinois at Springfield. His path intertwined with Donna Lee Marquardt when they wed on June 12, 1965. Shortly after, in March 1966, Jack donned the uniform of the US Army, rising through Officer Candidate School to serve as a lieutenant in Germany until early 1969. There, amid his duties, he and Donna welcomed their daughter Krista. Returning stateside with an honorable discharge, the family settled in Decatur, Illinois, where son John entered the world. Jack's world revolved around his Catholic roots, finding deep purpose in St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Carmel. A fervent supporter of personal freedoms, he engaged in local politics backing aligned causes. Baseball ignited his spirit—he coached teams in Decatur, cheered his son's adult league games right up to September 2025, and delighted in grandson Josh's adventures with camping outings and outdoor escapades. With Donna, he roamed far and wide, cherishing travels alongside dear companions, while maintaining a disciplined fitness regimen at Carmel's Monon Center into the summer.
Jack's professional odyssey showcased his expertise in labor relations and management. Starting at Firestone Tire and Rubber in Decatur handling labor matters until 1985, he advanced to Labor Relations Manager at Firestone Industrial Products in Noblesville after relocating to Carmel, Indiana. From 1990 onward, he helmed plant startups for multiple firms, directing all human resources operations with precision. His tenure concluded with retirement from TOA/USA Manufacturing in 2008, reflecting a career defined by leadership and operational excellence.
Photos of Life
Family & Loved Ones
Cherished moments with grandson Josh stood out in Jack's world, filled with rugged camping expeditions and nature explorations that forged unbreakable connections. Married to Donna for decades, their partnership blossomed with the arrivals of daughter Krista (Oakley) and son John, plus grandson Josh (Hunk), creating a tight-knit circle enriched by shared joys. Sister Elizabeth 'Betty' McBurney and her husband Harlan, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and enduring friendships, wove the fabric of his personal tapestry. Preceded by brothers Bob, Dick, and Don, as well as parents Larry and Betty, Jack's home pulsed with generosity, always extending aid to the needy.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from acquaintances paint Jack as a pillar of kindness and commitment, underscoring his generosity toward the underserved and unwavering family dedication that rippled through his circles.
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