I just learned today that Jack Lowrey passed on earlier this month. Following is what I received in an email today.

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Lt. Col. Jack Anderson Lowrey (Ret.)

1930 - 2012

Jack Lowrey was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on October 18,1930. An only child, his parents, Catherine Atchley Lowrey and Raymond Blake Lowrey moved their small family throughout the United States pursuing work opportunities during the Great Depression. Upon finding permanent work they settled in Richland, Washington where Jack graduated from Richland High School.

At age 16, Jack obtained his private pilot's license and in 1950 he enlisted in the U.S. AirForce, beginning a 30-year career of which he once proclaimed, .I loved every day of work during my active duty career.. Jack became a commissioned officer in 1953, and at that time fulfilled his life-long dream of becoming a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, piloting the F-80, F-84, F-86, and the F-4. Jack served several tours of duty in Vietnam and Thailand. Jack's Air Force career accomplishments included the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, AF Commendation Medal, National Vietnam Service Medal with Three Bronze Stars, AF Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal with One Star, and the AF Outstanding Unit Award. To the very end of his life Jack remained close with his Air Force brothers of the 50th Fighter Bomber Wing.

In 1958, while a pilot instructor at Laredo AFB, Jack married the love of his life, Lucile Arce. They lived throughout the world during their 54 years of marriage and chose to retire in Utah where they could indulge their passion for hunting, camping, skiing and enjoying the beauty of the of the Northern Utah Mountains.

Jack was a very active man with many interests. He loved to cook, once winning Ogden City's Chili Cook Off with his famous .Jackass Chili.. He was an accomplished auto mechanic, building his own Dune Buggy and Baja Bug and participated in many Moab Jeep safari adventures. He loved to ride his motorcycle and drive his RV. He was an accomplished leather craftsman making custom gun holsters for himself and friends. He also hand-carved beautifully accurate and detailed model airplanes from blocks of wood. He was a passionate gunsmith and marksman who built many of his own guns and reloaded his own ammo. His love of flying and airplanes remained a steadfast constant throughout his life. He loved a good air show and on occasion was able to fly with his son in many different types of aircraft, which brought both great pleasure. He was an active member of the NRA, as well as numerous aviation associations and a participating societal member of the prestigious Quite Birdmen and Order of Daedalians.

Jack was a devoted husband and father, he always placed Luci's desires and wishes first and his children always knew they could trust and rely on him. Jack had many friends both young and old, from all walks of life; we all miss his warm smile and large presence in our lives.

On May 10, 2012, with Luci, his children and grandchildren by his side, Jack passed away peacefully. Jack is survived by wife Luci and children Jack Lowrey, Jr. and Kelly Lowrey (Tony Fuertsch). He also leaves behind grandchildren, Shannon Lowrey, Calvin Lowrey, Charlie Fuertsch, Ben Fuertsch (Elly), Kristen Fuertsch, Katie Fuertsch and three great grandchildren.

Jack was a man of courage, honor and charity and above all he was a true patriot who believed in his country with all his heart and soul and felt extremely proud and privileged to have served his country honorably. In accordance with his wishes he will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Jack requested that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to your charity of choice.

An open house in Jack's honor will be held June 2nd, 2012, from 6 pm to 9 pm at 4260 Spring Road, Ogden, Utah 84403.

Thanks,

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Clyde H. Earl