John "Jack" Heywood

        It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jack Heywood on June 5, 2024, at the age of 73. A prostate cancer survivor, Jack was a cherished husband, father, friend, and community member, remembered for his immense kindness, infectious humor, and appreciation for life.

        Jack is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Penny Heywood, with whom he shared nearly 50 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised two beloved children, Heather Heywood and Brian Heywood. He also leaves behind many family members and friends who will miss him dearly.      

        Born in Milwaukee and raised in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Jack graduated from Waukesha South High School in 1969 and attended UW-LaCrosse. He dedicated 28 years of his career to Shipping and Receiving at Cargill, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Jack also served his community as an Election Official for the City of Waukesha.

       Jack's passions were as varied as they were vibrant. A talented drummer, he played in bands over the years and found joy in sharing his love for music with many. As a Beer Ambassador for the LaCrosse City Brewery, Jack enjoyed sharing his knowledge and passion for beer brewing. He also enjoyed brewing beer at home for his friends. He enjoyed designing and making jewelry, playing and recording music, and soaking up the sun by his pool. A dedicated sports fan, Jack was an ardent supporter of the Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, and Milwaukee Bucks.           

     Jack was a member of the Evangelical and Reformed United Church of Christ and a past board member of the Waukesha Musicians’ Union. His fun-loving personality, great sense of humor, and spontaneous creativity in making jokes, poems, or songs endeared him to everyone he met. Jack treated everyone like a friend from the moment they met, and his love for animals, especially cats and dogs, was well known.

       In retirement, Jack and Penny traveled to Aruba and the Dominican Republic, savoring summer nights with live music, Brewer games and many other date nights. Their bond was an inspiration to many, marked by shared interests and deep mutual love. They were the perfect match.          Jack cherished his family deeply and created countless memories with them. Most recently, in April and May, they enjoyed a family trip to Ireland, and Liverpool/London, England. Jack also treasured their many family vacations, including annual summer trips to Wisconsin Dells for the waterparks, and attending countless Brewer games and tailgates, and special traditions with his children. 

         One of Jack's favorite traditions with his son Brian was the annual weekend in Madison for the High School State Boys Basketball tournament, as well as attending many Badger Basketball games. His daughter Heather made sure he experienced many of his favorites live, such as the band Boston at the Wisconsin State Fair, the Harlem Globetrotters this past December, and numerous WWE wrestling events over the years. 

         Growing up, Heather and Brian were fortunate to have their dad as their coach for all their athletic teams year-round. Most importantly, Jack never missed a game, practice, school concert, open house, conference, or a night of helping with homework. His unwavering support and involvement in their lives made him an extraordinary father. 

           Jack is preceded in death by his mother, Ida Heywood, his parents-in-law, Walbert and Betty Keuper, his brother-in-law, Dr. Jack Keuper, his godparents, George and Dorothy Diehl, and many beloved pets. 

           A celebration of Jack's life will be held at a later date. Those wishing to attend can e-mail [email protected] for details. The family kindly requests that donations be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (pcf.org) or the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) of Waukesha County (hawspets.org) in honor of Jack's memory. Your support for these causes would mean a great deal to the family. 

           Jack's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the medical team at Waukesha Memorial Hospital for their care and support. Jack Heywood will be greatly missed, but his spirit will forever be an angel watching over us.