John “Jack” H. Theis, age 77, of Beaver Dam, died on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at Golden Living Center.
A memorial gathering will be at Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Sunday, May 31, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. There will also be a memorial gathering at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Beaver Dam on Monday from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at the church on Monday at 11:30 a.m. Cremation has taken place.
John “Jack” Herbert Theis was born on July 9, 1937 in Madison, Wisconsin to Ferdinand and Mary (Foss) Theis. He was married to Margaret Eggert on December 28, 1964 in Green Bay. Jack was an innovative educator who started out at the Junior High level in Baltimore, MD. Jack came back to Wisconsin where he taught at Beaver Dam High School up until his retirement. He was a Packer fan who carried that enthusiasm and fun into the classroom. He kept his students entertained by playing music in class, and on occasion had to hand out a “nasty drafting card” to keep the students on their toes. His efforts and approach earned him a Teacher of the Year award, an honor his students and the other faculty members were proud to bestow on him. His political views were often expressed in the letters to the editor that he often sent in to the Daily Citizen. Jack was an active member of St. Katharine Drexel Parish, singing in the funeral choir, serving on the Parish Council, and also served his faith community by joining the Board of Directors of St. Vincent de Paul Society. He coached basketball at St. Peter’s School and also found time to golf in the Men’s Golf League. Jack also enjoyed playing the guitar and mandolin.
Jack Theis is survived by his wife Marge, of Beaver Dam; sons Peter (Astrid) Theis of Mexico and David Theis of Townsend, WI; his sister, Sr. Kathleen Theis, OP of Dubuque, IA; his granddaughter, Alexandria Theis, ID; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
If desired, memorials may be made in John H. Theis’ name to St. Vincent de Paul Society or to the Beaver Dam Community Theatre.
The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is caring for the family. To leave online condolences, or for directions and other information, please visit our website at www.KoepsellFH.com
