Obituary of John "Jack" A. Wilcox

Latham- John "Jack" A. Wilcox, 81 of Latham, beloved husband of Ruth Beck Wilcox for 58 year, died Friday, December 21, 2012 at Albany Medical Center. Born in Syracuse, he was the son of the late James A. and Doris (Adsit) Wilcox. He received his elementary and secondary education in Baldwinsville, NY. Jack graduated at age 17 and was immediately signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers as a left handed pitcher. After a successful pitching career with the Fargo North Dakota and Moorhead Twins, he decided getting an education was an important role in his life. He graduated with honors and a Bachelors and Master's degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation from the University of Minnesota at Moorhead. He taught for twelve years in Minnesota, then moved his family to Latham and began his career as a physical Education, Health Teacher and Coach at Shaker High School retiring in 1985. He loved the game of golf and played with the Northeastern Association of the Blind League with his dear friend Jim McGork. He was the Fire Commissioner for the Verdoy Fire Company for many years and also a member of the North Colonie Ambulance Squad. Jack was a longtime member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Latham. Survivors include his beloved wife: Ruth Beck Wilcox, his loving son Jay A. Wilcox of Latham, his cherished grandchildren Melissa Marino, Ashley Zimmer, Ryan Zimmer, Chelsea Wilcox Amos and Dylan Wilcox, his great-granddaughter Emily Jayne Marino. He was predeceased by his daughter Patricia Wilcox Zimmer and sister Mary Jean Houghtaling. Relatives and friends are invited to call Thursday December 27, from 4-7 pm at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Funeral services will be held Friday December 28, 2012 at 11:00 am in St. Matthews Episcopal Church, 129 Old Loudon Rd., Latham with Rev. Richard Lehmann officiating. After the service Friends and relatives are invited to the verdoy fire dept to celebrate "Coach Jack Wilcox's life. Contributions to the Verdoy Fire Co. 988 Troy Schenectady Road Latham, NY 12110 or to St. Matthew's Episcopal Church 129 Old Loudon Rd. Latham, NY 12110 in memory of Jack Wilcox would be appreciated. York 12110 For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.