Jack Lee Schmelzer

Jack Lee "Ripper" Schmelzer, 68, of Freeport, died Tuesday December 8, at Lena Living Center in Lena. He was born December 10, 1946 in Freeport, IL the son of Oral "Bud" Schmelzer Sr. and Bernice Thorn-Bicker Jack worked as a truck driver for Civil Byron Nuclear Plant. He loved hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, racing, and played in a band in his younger years. He was a former member of the Eagles and Moose Lodge. He was a real character with his story telling and was known for giving everyone nicknames. He also loved going to the casino and playing Keno. Jack is survived by his son, Shawn (Rachel) Schmelzer of La Valle, Wisconsin; two daughters, Connie Vogt of La Valle, Wisconsin, and Stephanie Simons of Prescott, Arizona; two brothers, Dennis (Teresa) Ditsworth of Dakota, Illinois, and Jimmy Schmelzer of Freeport; three sisters, Mary Sturz and Dawn Ann Ditsworth ,both of Bradenton, Fla. and Brenda (Chuck) Boland of Freeport; and five grandchildren. Also surviving is his son in law and best friend. Terry "Sonny" Simons Jack was preceded in death by his parents, brother, stepfather, and grandson Justin Schmelzer. Jack will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date due to the holidays. Condolences can be sent to Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home. Please sign his guestbook and share a memory at www.burketubbs.com.