Jack Dautrich, age 91, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024, after a brief battle with pneumonia. He was born on August 10, 1932, in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Erwin and Gladys Dautrich, who both preceded him in death. Jack was also preceded in death by his son, Craig Dautrich, and his granddaughter, Danielle Dautrich.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Connie; his brother Phil Dautrich, and his wife Cheryl and their family, his daughter, Lindsay Dautrich Baird, and her husband, Robert; his son, Jimmy Dautrich, and his wife, Merrick; Scott and Tammy Howard; his grandchildren, Kailey Hessel, her husband Michael, Derek Conley, his wife Hannah, Devin Conley, Corry Dautrich, Drew Dautrich, Kyla Howard, and Bryce Howard; and his great-grandchildren, Violet Conley, Nora Hessel, Dani Hessel, and Remi Conley, and several nieces and nephews.

Surviving relatives in Ponca City: Sally & David Shelton, Nancy & Joe Spielbush & families.

After graduating from high school, Jack joined the United States Air Force, spending most of his time stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas, near the US-Mexico border. There, he specialized in working on the era’s most sophisticated machine guns.

Following his service, Jack enrolled at Kansas State University and later completed his degree at Wichita State University. He embarked on a short career in Wichita before discovering his true passion for marketing at Conoco in Houston, Texas.

It was in Houston that Jack met the love of his life, Connie, who was seeking a golf partner. Initially reluctant, Jack was quickly won over by Connie’s impressive swing on the first tee. This serendipitous meeting led to a lifelong partnership.

Jack and Connie later moved to Ponca City, Oklahoma, to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. In Ponca City, Jack earned the affectionate nickname “Papa Smurf” after a can of blue paint accidentally spilled on him while painting their house.

Jack was an active member of the First Christian Church of Ponca City, serving as Chairman of the Board and Deacon. He was also deeply involved in his son Jimmy’s athletic and academic pursuits.

Jack retired from Conoco in 1992. Eventually, Jack and Connie relocated to The Woodlands, Texas, to be closer to family. Over the past 20+ years, they cherished the joy of being surrounded by loved ones.

Jack was an active member of the Living Word Lutheran Church in The Woodlands, serving as a loyal counter performing financial reviews and on the communion preparation team.

Jack was a devoted father, passionate golfer, skilled cook, and enthusiastic foodie. He shared his love for these activities with his children, creating lasting memories and traditions.

Jack’s legacy of love, dedication, and passion will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A memorial service for Jack will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday June 18, 2024, in the Robb Chapel of The Woodlands Methodist Church, 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380. In lieu of flowers, please donate on behalf of Jack to help the fight against juvenile diabetes through BreakthroughT1D (formerly JDRF) Paid Obituary