John (Jack) David Wides of Carbondale
John (Jack) David Wides, 78, was born Aug. 5, 1946, in Murphysboro, and passed away peacefully on Nov. 1, 2024.
Jack is survived by his children, David and Rachel and husband Alex; his grandchildren, respectively, Eirwen (14) and Arie (11), Corbin (8) and Sal (6); sister Kathy and husband Joel; and his beloved nieces, nephews and their children.
Preceding him in death were parents Louis and Mimi as well as brothers Jeff and Bob.
Jack graduated from Washington University with a degree in business, also serving as the editor of the yearbook, The Hatchet. During his career Jack prided himself as an entrepreneur, owning and running many businesses including a beer distribution business, Widico Fire Extinguisher Company, Bresler’s Ice Cream, Horace Mann Insurance, and commercial property management.
Jack spent his life in southern Illinois as a devoted community member who cared deeply about the people here. He was an active member within the Jewish community through Congregation Beth Jacob, Camp Ben Frankel, and the Jewish Federation. He committed his time and energy to morning Rotary with service to the Boys and Girls Club, local schools and international service travel.
The most important thing of all was Jack’s unconditional love for his children, grandchildren, family and friends. He was kind, generous, loving, devoted, loyal and accepting to all. Jack loved hosting bicycle riders through Warm Showers, opening his home for respite in exchange for great conversation. He enjoyed time with his lifelong friends through ROMEO and TIPS.
Jack embraced all who wanted a place to rest, a good meal, enjoyable conversation and a sweet dessert. Many lives shine brighter because of Jack and his legacy lives through all who knew him.
A family-only graveside service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in Beth Jacob Garden at Pleasant Grove Memorial Park. A celebration of life will be held at noon Nov. 9 at Temple Beth Jacob, 904 N. Northwest Ln., Carbondale. Jack loved color, so please join in this celebration in anything other than black.
In lieu of flowers, send memorial donations to the VEDS Movement in memory of Jack Wides. This is a disease that has greatly impacted Jack and his family: thevedsmovement.org/donate
The cremation of John (Jack) David Wides has been personally handled by the staff of Crain Funeral Home. Crain Pleasant Grove-Murdale Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.