Obituary of Jack C. Vaccaro

On Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Jack C. Vaccaro passed away peacefully at home in Long Lake, MN. He was strong in body and mind and will be remembered for his kind heart, knowing smile, and generous spirit.

Jack was committed to his tight little family, and anyone brought into the fold, human or canine. Steadfast by Jack’s side in life and through its earthly end were Sheila, his wife of 60 years, and his children Dean and Shari. Also, by their Bapa’s side were his grandchildren, Leo (Megan) and Sabrina Southwick. Many relatives will miss Jack dearly, particularly his brother Bill, step-sister Linda, and Sheila’s sisters Sharon and Sue and their loving families.

On June 27, 1933, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Jack was born to Anthony and Josephine (Cosentino) Vaccaro. He grew up in Ravenna, OH, and proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War, stationed in Alaska.

Jack met Sheila Tanner, the love of his life, at Heidelberg College, and they married and started their family in Toledo, OH. His 30-year career at General Mills brought them to Minnesota, where they planted their roots. For decades, Jack enjoyed camping with family and annual fishing trips to Canada with his friends. For the last 25 years, “Yack” and “Chela” wintered at Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Jack cherished his relationships, near and far, old and new.

A service for Jack will be held in a Minnesota conservation memorial forest once travel is safe. In the meantime, please celebrate his life by sharing stories and photos on the tribute wall.

If you choose to donate in Jack’s name, please consider animal welfare, wildlife, and nature organizations; they were nearest and dearest to his heart.