Obituary of Jack G. Stateler

Jack died at age 101.  He was predeceased by his loving wife of 73 years, Evelyn (Nelson) Stateler and his parents, Ernest and Clara (Guppy) Stateler.  Jack is survived by his sister, Jane (John) Cameron, and her children and grandchildren; by his son, Jay, his daughters, Kristine (Andrew) Bernstein and Laura Stateler, and his granddaughter, Blair Bernstein; and by his daughter, Carol (Peter) Hausner.

Jack was born in Pittsburgh, and raised there and in the suburbs of New York City, and Chicago.  Jack met Evelyn when they were both undergraduates at Kalamazoo College in Michigan.  Jack's college years were interrupted by his service in the US Navy during WWII, which included time as Navigator for an LST (Landing Ship, Tank) – service that aligned well with his knowledge and interest in stars – and concluded with him being the Commanding Officer of the ship.  Jack received master’s degrees in physics and optics at the University of Illinois and University of Rochester, respectively.  Jack spent his entire professional career (36 years) working for the Eastman Kodak Company as an Optical Quality Control Engineer, with much of his efforts involving military products and new commercial product development.  Jack was chairman of a national optics standards committee for 6 years.  

Jack and Evelyn achieved Gold Life Master status as duplicate bridge partners.  Jack and Evelyn were active members of Irondequoit United Church of Christ, where he served at various times as General Treasurer, Endowment Fund Treasurer, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Well into his 70s, Jack and Evelyn traveled regularly to play duplicate bridge, and to vacation domestically and in various foreign countries (including the Soviet Union).  Until near the very end, Jack was a vital, smart, caring, positive, humorous, and loving husband, parent, grandparent, great grandparent, and friend.

A memorial gathering will be held on May 14, 2026 at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, 570 Kings Hwy So, Rochester, NY 14617 beginning at 9:30 am, and a Memorial Service will follow at 10:00 am, with Rev. Paul Grenier officiating.  Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a donation to the Endowment Fund of the Irondequoit United Church of Christ.