Jack Arnet Lemke

Jack Arnet Lemke, a devoted husband, father, veteran, and craftsman, passed on with a life marked by service, integrity, and deep love for his family.

Jack was born at home on June 27, 1933, in Altadena, California. From humble beginnings, he grew into a man defined by resilience, patriotism, and quiet strength. 

At 15 years old, and with a note from his mother giving him permission to join the Army, he answered the call to serve his country at a young age, and served honorably in the Korean War from September 17, 1949, through 1952. His service reflected a lifelong commitment to duty and honor.

Upon returning home, Jack built a distinguished career as a tool and die maker for Air Logistics (Airlog) in Pasadena, California. Airlog had a proud history of developing and manufacturing machinery, tools, and composite products that were vital to military, airline, and high-technology industries around the world. Jack’s work contributed to that legacy of innovation and excellence.

He later continued his career with the City of San Marino, serving his community with the same reliability and dedication he showed in all areas of his life. Jack went on to become a Building Engineer with Albert C. Martin & Associates in Los Angeles, California, where his skill and professionalism were deeply valued.

Jack shared a remarkable 65-year marriage with his beloved wife, Donna Jean Clark, the daughter of Earl and Florence Clark. Earl was a machinist for Allison Engineering, and Florence devoted her life to her family as a full-time mother, grandmother, and homemaker. 

Together, Jack and Donna built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and family tradition.

Above all else, Jack was an exceptional father. He was a record-holding baseball coach for multiple teams in the Altadena Little League, where he mentored young athletes with patience, discipline, and encouragement. To many, he was more than a coach—he was a role model.

Jack embraced life with a spirit of adventure. He took his family everywhere, creating lasting memories on road trips from California to Indiana.

He took family to all the amusement parks. He also had a deep love for exploration, especially of old ghost towns and historic mining sites. From the Mother Lode towns of Northern California to the vast landscapes of Death Valley National Park, Jack found joy in discovery and shared that passion with those he loved.

He will be remembered as an All-American hero, a hardworking man, and a steady presence whose legacy lives on through his family and all who knew him.

Jack Arnet Lemke’s life was a testament to service, craftsmanship, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Graveside service with Military Honors will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Covina, California on Friday, April 3rd at 12:00 P.M. 

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