Jack Mersch, son of Jim and Fern (Allen) Mersch, passed away February 11, 2020, one day after his 78th birthday. Jack was born in 1942 in rural Edmond, Kansas, the youngest in a family of five. Growing up, Jack acquired a strong work ethic from his parents who struggled as farmers and ranchers living on the Gudgell Ranch homestead during the depression years. Hard work was the rule of life for this and all families during this time period. But Fern and Jim knew that work and play mixed well as they raised their family. We remember fondly the stories of his childhood that Jack loved to share about his many relatives and friends who centered their lives around Jim and Fern. Their hospitality and kindness were the very foundation of Jack’s personality throughout his life. Jack recalled how his mother welcomed all to their table, no matter how limited their resources were. She always took care of everyone who arrived invited or not. Jack learned from her that helping people and taking care of family were what life was about.
After high school Jack attended Fort Hays State University, graduating in 1965 with a degree in Botany and Agriculture. The sudden death of his father led Jack back home to Edmond where he took over the farm operation and the care of his mother. In 1966 Jack met and married Sherry Williams. He became a father to Todd and Dennis. Later he moved his family to Hill City where he purchased the local tavern from Ben Dreiling. In 1972 he began his new career as the owner and operator of Jack’s Lounge which later became the J Bar S. Jack’s personality suited his business perfectly. He had a dream and worked diligently to become a success. At six feet three inches, with bright red hair, humorous wit and country boy charm, he was a character who was so likeable that once you liked him, you loved him. He attracted customers to the bar, customers who became his best friends – his “family”. Jack hustled behind the bar with a speed and determination that no glass was ever going to be left empty. He served up drinks along with his stories and friendship. If you came in as a stranger to him, you left as a new friend. The passing years saw many different bartenders who worked for Jack, including both of his sons.
After his divorce from Sherry in 1987, Jack continued to run the bar, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2012. By this time Jack had become the proud grandfather of Faith and Claire, the daughters of Dennis and Tammy. In 2014 health issues forced Jack to retire, and he sold the bar to his son Todd and wife Sandy.
Through the years Jack was involved in many activities and organizations. He was an active member in the local Elks Lodge and Chamber of Commerce as well as being a volunteer county fireman. Jack had a vital part in forming what is now known as Graham County Sportsman’s Trap Club. He
attended many carp derbies in Norton before he founded his own annual carp derby now known as the Jack Mersch Outlaw Rod and Reel
Fishing Tournament which is usually held at Webster State Lake. In 1982 Jack became the founding father and chairman of our local Ducks Unlimited Chapter. Along with his committee members, Jack led this organization as it became more successful each year with its annual November banquet. He remained actively involved until 2013.
Jack was a man with many interests and hobbies. His knowledge of botany was evident in all his gardening, beautiful flower beds and planting trees. He grew up with coon dogs and loved the sport of hunting and shooting guns, a fondness he passed on to his sons. Throughout the years, his interest in animals inspired him to raise all kinds of birds, rabbits, fish and dogs. The more exotic the breed of chicken, the more excited he was about incubating the eggs and producing more to sell or trade at the Sunday bird sales.
Above all else, fishing was Jack’s favorite of all his outdoor activities. His home away from home was Webster Lake where he camped with his family and friends. He enjoyed shooting pool and was an avid KU basketball fan. Retirement also found him sometimes lying on the couch with a stack of Louis L’Amour books. He loved old western movies, John Wayne movies being his favorite. Family life was so important to him. Keeping alive his family’s history was a top priority. Through the years he hosted many family reunions where he shared so many stories of aunts, uncles and cousins, times of the past – his heritage.
Perhaps the biggest joy in Jack’s life was being a grandfather. He was always thrilled to be with his granddaughters, spoiling them with his love. He was certainly a great grandfather and bragged about them to everyone. As Jack’s health further declined, he moved into Dawson Place Nursing Home, living out his final days.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don and Bruce Lloyd, and sister Jeanice. Survivors include his two sons Todd and wife Sandy, Dennis and wife Tammy, and granddaughters Faith and Claire, all of Hill City, and a sister Marge Wilson of Wyoming. Jack was a true legend in our community, although he remained humble to the end. He will be forever remembered and sorely missed by all.
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