John F Hales

Hales, John “Jack” F. 80, of St Petersburg, passed away at home June 13, 2023. Born and raised in Waterbury CT, Jack earned his master’s degree from The University of Maryland. He was preceded in death by his adored wife, Judy. He is survived by his loving daughters Tracy (Steve) and Kimberly (Billy), his grandchildren Haley, Brittany (Bruce), Chris (Jessica), Greg (Kirsten), Will (Silvia), Josh and many great-grandchildren who will miss “Great Grandpa Jack” very much. Jack was an involved husband and father who took his family around the world. He was a retired U.S. Marine Corps aviator with more than 6,000 military flight hours and almost as many successful landings as takeoffs in 34 aircraft models over a 23-year career, retiring as a Lt. Colonel at U.S. Central Command at MacDill AFB. After retiring he specialized as a C-130 simulator project manager and quickly becoming Director of New Business for Reflectone, BAE and CAE. Jack also owned JF Hales and Associates, a consulting firm. Throughout his life Jack had a passion for HAM Radio. He was an active member of a local non-profit group called the St. Petersburg Amateur Radio Club (SPARC), Parks on the Air (POTA), ARRL, FCG, SKCC and W4PRK. His smile, intelligence and witty banter made it hard for Jack to meet a stranger. He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers please make donations in the name of Jack Hales, call sign W1BBU to the local non-profit, SPARC: P.O. Box 2217, St. Petersburg, FL 33731 Visit the family’s online guestbook at www,AndersonMcQueen.com