In remembering the life of Jack D. McNamara, we find ourselves both mourning the loss and celebrating the remarkable journey of a man whose curiosity and courage left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born in Alpine, Texas on June 3, 1937, Jack's life was a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge and justice.

Jack's journey began in the quiet streets of Alpine, where he graduated from Alpine High School in 1955. His thirst for knowledge and adventure led him to Tulane University on an ROTC scholarship, where he graduated in 1959 with a BA in English. His academic journey was just the beginning, as Jack would later earn a Master's in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin in 1972, and a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin after his retirement from the Marine Corps.

Jack served two tours in Vietnam with the Marine Corps, embodying the values of courage and dedication. Jack earned 10 medals and ribbons between 1965 and 1976; 3 of these were received because of actions in combat, and in 1970, Jack was awarded a Bronze Star. Jack returned to Vietnam for a second tour in 1968. It was a difficult choice, motivated by the spirit of Semper Fi, the motto of the USMC.

His experiences there shaped his life and deepened his commitment to justice, particularly for those who found themselves on the margins of society. Jack's passion for history, politics, and literature made him a lifelong learner and a teacher at heart. He shared his love for these subjects as an educator at community colleges in Texas and Oregon, inspiring students with his insights and enthusiasm.

In 1963, Jack married the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Petillon. Together, they welcomed their daughters, Mary Kimberly and Kathleen, in 1964 and 1965, respectively. Bonnie, who predeceased Jack, was his partner in all things, and her memory remained a guiding light in his life.

Jack was known for his iconoclastic spirit, always seeking the hidden truths and real meanings beneath the surface. He was an avid reader, a trait that kept his mind sharp and his perspectives ever-evolving. His brother Jerry, father LJ, and mother Mary D, who predeceased him, were influential figures in his life, shaping the values he held dear.

As we bid farewell to Jack, we remember a man who was more than just a husband, father, brother, and friend. He was a seeker, a thinker, and a doer, whose life was a testament to the power of knowledge and the importance of standing up for what is right. After completing his PhD in Austin at the University of Texas, Jack returned to Alpine and became a watchdog in local affairs. He wrote and produced the Nimby News newsletter for many years, exposing schemes and corruption in West Texas wherever he found them.

Shortly after his return to Alpine, Jack corralled his family and convinced them to take on the challenge of building an adobe home on what was originally his parents' property. After a year of hard labor hauling adobe bricks and hand churning the mud, the McNamaras had completed a small home, where Jack and Bonnie lived until their move to Oregon.

Jack is survived by his beloved daughters, Mary Kimberly Wissenback McNamara and Kathleen McNamara, who carry forward his legacy of curiosity and compassion. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Bonnie, his brother Jerry, and parents, LJ and Mary D McNamara.

He is also survived by his favorite aunt, LaFerne Scudday. LaFerne's husband, and Jack's uncle, Dr James Scudday, passed away in 2009. Dr Scudday was a longtime professor of Biology at Sul Ross State University in Alpine. Jack is also survived by his childhood friend, his cousin Dr Richard Bohn Allen, and his wife Ann. Jack's family and heritage encompass a large family tree, too numerous to recount.

In Jack's honor, let us continue to seek knowledge, question the world around us, and stand up for the underdogs, just as he did throughout his extraordinary life. Rest in peace, Jack, knowing that your journey and spirit will continue to inspire us all.