John J. Croker

John “Jack” J Croker, Wheat Ridge, CO. Survived by sister, Dr. Mary Lorenz, Manchester, IA, nieces and nephew, and special friend, Jean Grattet. Jack was the son of Leo and Hertha Croker, owners of Croker’s Restaurant in Ackley, IA. Leo died when Jack was 12 years old. Jack attended Sacred Heart Academy, Ackley, IA, from Kindergarten through 8 attended Ackley Public High School through his junior year then moved with his mother and sister to Manchester, IA where his sister began her Medical Practice and where he completed his senior high school year. Upon graduation from Loras College, Dubuque, IA, Jack enlisted in the Army and served in Communications Security. After completion of his military tour, Jack began a career in sales, working for various companies in the Midwest. Jack was an avid fisherman, thoroughly appreciated nature, particularly hiking the Wheat Ridge Green Belt watching for the Honeysuckle, and Columbine to bloom, and observing different species of birds. Mt. Evans was his favorite mountain where he enjoyed watching and photographing the Rocky Mountain goats. He was passionate about University of Iowa Football. Jack made and kept in contact with numerous friends throughout his years. He made new friends as a resident at St. Paul’s Health Center, Denver, where he died. While in the Denver area, Jack became an extended family member of the families of long time kindergarten friend, Jean Ryken Grattet and her sister, Rita Ryken Bennett. A memorial gathering is being planned for October 12, 11 a.m. at the Wheat Ridge Green Belt. For information, contact Jean Grattet at 303-573-7942. Memorial contributions in honor of Jack Croker can be sent to: Kathy Houston Wheat Ridge Community Foundation 4005 Kipling Street Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Make checks payable to Wheat Ridge Community Foundation (Green Belt) with notation for Jack Croker Memorial.