Jon Kenneth Zook 1936-2011

ZOOK, LINSLEY, OEHLERKING

Posted By: Connie Swearingen-Volunteer (email)
Date: 2/7/2013 at 13:25:05

Sioux City Journal
9 October 2011

SIOUX CITY -- Jon Kenneth Zook (known to many as JK, Jake and Mr. Z), 75, of Sioux City died peacefully Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2011, at his son's home in Albuquerque, N.M., after completing his final goal, to attend the Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Memorial and Masonic services will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Shrine Center, 9th and Nebraska streets, Sioux City. Family visitation will begin 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Shrine Center. At his final wishes, Master Chief Petty Officer Zook will be buried at sea in warm waters. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.

Jon was born on June 23, 1936, in the family home, the son of Gus and Ruth (Linsley) Zook. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church. Jon attended Joy School and graduated from East High. He joined the U.S. Navy in January 1955, serving active and reserves for 32 years.

Jon was a dedicated Sioux City Police Officer from 1962 to 1993, retiring as sergeant (Zulu Leader). Jon served on the USS Intrepid CV 11, now a floating museum in New York City. He attended many of the ship's reunions and had the special honor of being aboard her when she was moved from Staten Island back to her home pier after being refurbished.

Jon and Gloria Oehlerking were united in marriage on June 6, 1992, in Sioux City. The couple moved to an acreage near Lawton, Iowa, enjoying the great outdoors. Jon was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and entered into Bickford Cottage Assisted Living on March 1, 2010.

He was a member of the Shrine Wrecking Crew, American Legion, VFW, USS Intrepid Association, NERA, Iowa Association of Chiefs of Police & Peace Officers, Scottish Rite and Morningside Lodge. Jon loved fishing, traveling, cruising and gardening. Traveling to Australia, New Zealand and Alaska were the highlights of his life.

Jon is survived by his wife, Gloria; his faithful Border Collie companion, Emily; five children, Janis Crews, June (Doug) Asher, Jay (Laurinda) Zook, Jeff (Erin) Zook and Julianne (Kirby) Hohbach; two stepchildren, Todd (Beth) Oehlerking and Cheryl (Matt) Sharpe; 20 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; his loving sister, Marie (Clause) Smalley; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Glen; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Memorials may be directed to the Abu Bekr Shrine Transportation Fund.

A special thank you goes out to his "Angels" at Bickford Cottage for all your kindness and care and to all who made the time to visit him.