Feb. 10, 2009 — John Francis "Jack" Diehl, 50, a long time resident of St. Thomas, was tragically killed near his family home in the Mandahl Bay community on Sunday. Jack was born in Abington, PA, and raised in Ocean City, N.J.
He was a respected local contractor, and a beloved friend to many on the island. Most recently, he tirelessly devoted his time to preserving the pristine environment of Mandahl Bay, helping to lead the fight against development in that area.
Jack will be missed by his friends and family. He is predeceased by his father Jerome and his mother-in-law Bonnie Connor. He leaves behind his wife JoAnne, his two sons Nolan and Cullen, his mother Margaret, his four brothers Richard, Edward, Jerome, and Robert, and the rest of his loving family.
His infectious smile, joyful laugh, and gift for conversation will be affectionately remembered by all who knew him. At candlelight vigil in his honor on Monday at Mandahl Bay friends and family noted that he never had a bad word to say about anyone.
His family asks you to honor Jack's memory with a renewed commitment to peace, justice, and above all, non-violence in a world that is sometimes very cruel and difficult to understand. In the days ahead, all who loved him will be comforted in the knowledge that Jack's beautiful spirit will live on in two sons, of whom he was so proud.
A funeral service is planned for 11 a.m. Thursday at the St. Thomas Reformed Church, 776-8255. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Diehl Family Fund.
Obituary by the Diehl family.
