Jack's obituary
Jurgen (Jack) Hausmann, a beacon of friendship, kindness, and joy, departed from this world on February 12, 2024, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. While our hearts are heavy with grief, we choose to celebrate the remarkable life he led.
Born in Berlin, Germany, on October 22, 1939, amid a backdrop of darkness, uncertainty, and chaos, Jurgen immediately infused an abundance of light into the lives of those around him. Throughout post-war Germany, he did contribute to a touch of chaos on his own, due to his lifelong need for adventure. His perpetual curiosity and eagerness to learn remained unwavering throughout his life.
In 1955, thanks to true love and Alphonse Haettenschwiller (Opa/daddy), Jack set sail for the United States on a troop ship. Once he landed, it was a whole new world for him. Jack tackled English, tinkered with American cars at the local service station, soaked up the culture, fell in love with a great girl named Georgeanne, and found his true calling in sales. That journey was the start of Jack's American dream.
Jack and Georgeanne added three amazing boys to his family – Michael, Timothy, and Peter. He tried a few different sales gigs before stumbling onto the bank equipment sales scene. These years were a whirlwind of boy scouts, speedy cars, church trips, band practices, swim meets, camping trips, and a ton of love for his boys.
Jack was lucky enough to find love twice in his life. When he met Beth, he knew he had found his match and partner for life. They expanded the family again, this time with a daughter named Kate. From ballet recitals to volleyball games and track meets, Jack was there for all of it. He also made sure Kate knew her way around classic cars. Jack and Beth ventured into various businesses together, with Beth bringing the organizational finesse and focused guidance Jack needed. Out of this partnership came Southern Bank Equipment.
While building his own family, he made sure to keep up with his siblings, Thomas and Inez. These three would get together at Family Camp or sibling fest. Jurgen and Inez traveled to many places together, making lifetime memories that both cherished.
With three kids (Tim, Peter, and Kate) and Beth graduating from Clemson, Jack grew to bleed purple and orange. He cheered on the good guys at many home games, bowl games, and even a National Championship game. Since 1999, we have celebrated Family Beach Week at Hilton Head Island. This eventually expanded to Thanksgiving at the beach, a time for reflection and togetherness with the whole family. Over the years there have been trips to 30A, St. Thomas, the Caymans, Positano, New York City, Las Vegas, London, Christmas Markets, and our beloved island paradise, Turks and Caicos. In recent years, we celebrated Jack’s 80th by visiting Berlin and spending time together in Italy. Last summer we went on a big family cruise through the Mediterranean. So many special memories were made on that trip with the best grandkids a Big Daddy Jack could ask for: Alex, Emery, Zoe, Kennedy, Alexis, Rollie, Abhi, Christian, Reese, and Natalie.
Jack's zest for adventure and passion for life shone through in his myriad interests and pursuits. Whether he was on the tennis court (a lifelong passion) or carving through snow on skis, participating in classic car shows or rallies or attending boat shows, sailing the open waters or cruising down the highway, building intricate Lego creations or diving into a good book, watching a PBS murder mystery or tuning into the Motor Trend Channel, Jack embraced a kaleidoscope of hobbies. And let's not forget his faithful companions in adventure – from past dogs who shared in his escapades to his beloved Tigger, Jack's canine sidekick. The joy and camaraderie he found with these furry friends were an integral part of his love for life.
A pillar of kindness and dependability within his community, Jack touched countless lives through his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand. His commitment to Alpharetta Rotary, Senior Services North Fulton, and Lionheart Life Center’s Works Program reflected his belief in making the world a better place for everyone. Over the years, he participated in mission trips throughout the world. Closer to home, he volunteered with the Drake House, Lionheart garden, Special Pops, and so many more great organizations throughout North Fulton.
A celebration of life will take place on March 9, from 12 - 2:30 at the Country Club of the South (4100 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022). Please stop by during that time for lunch and an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and help us support the following causes and organizations he cared about. We want this to be a time of joy, laughter, and fond recollections that reflect the warmth and spirit he brought into our lives. Please share your favorite story or cherished memory of Jack during the gathering. Your stories will contribute to the uplifting atmosphere as we celebrate the remarkable journey of Jack.
In lieu of any flowers or gifts, please consider making a donation in his honor to the following causes: Lionheart Life Center, Senior Services North Fulton, or MD Anderson Cancer Center, causes close to his heart.
As we remember Jack Hausmann, let us not mourn the loss but rejoice in the gift of his presence in our lives. May his memory be a beacon of light, guiding us through the days ahead. Remember to adventure often in your life.
Happy Jack, Happy Pack. XOXO Forever your pack.