Lt. Col. Jack A. Kimball, USAF, Ret., a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the age of 95 at his home in New Baden, surrounded by his family.
Born on December 30, 1928, in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Fraser, Michigan, Mr. Kimball graduated from Fraser High School in 1947. On May 23, 1953, he married Emma Wise and together they built a life filled with love and dedication.
Lt. Col. Kimball honorably served his country as a bombardier, navigator, and pilot in the United States Air Force before retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His commitment to service extended beyond his military career as he dedicated many years to volunteering with the Red Cross.
He was preceded in death by his parents Ina (Tapinalia) Kimball and Floyd A. Kimball, his step-mother Ethel (Seivert) Kimball, his brother Ronald Kimball, his son Jeff Kimball, and son-in-law Douglas J. Kritzer.
Jack is survived by his loving wife Emma (Wise) Kimball; daughters Karen A. (Paul) Svoboda of New Baden and Patricia I. Kritzer of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter-in-law Michelle Kimball of Floyd, Virginia; grandchildren Amanda Kritzer and Alisha (Ryan) D'Agutso, Roxanna (Keith) DiMariano, Stephen Svoboda, Russell Svoboda (Dee Ernst), and Paul Svoboda Jr (Lucia); as well as great-grandchildren Mayla Thiher, Mason Thiher, Milo D'Agutso, Misty D'Agutso, and Milly D'Agutso, Bradley, Jessy DiGowin, Danten DiMariano and Savanna Svoboda.
In accordance with Mr. Kimball's wishes for simplicity and respect for the family's privacy during this time of loss, he will be cremated without any formal services held. His final resting place will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis at a later date.
Memorials can be made in Mr. Kimball's name to the charity of choice as a tribute to his memory and may be sent to Nordike Funeral Home located at 15 East Hanover Street in New Baden.
To offer condolences or share memories with the Kimball family during this difficult time, please visit www.nordikefuneralhome.com.