Jack Lee Whitchelo
Jack Lee Whitchelo
Obituary
Guest Book
Jack Whitchelo Obituary
Jack was born in Maquoketa, Iowa, and grew up there before attending the University of Northern Iowa. A lifelong educator, he taught elementary students at Elk Run Elementary for the Waterloo Community Schools and later worked with Hawkeye Community College, teaching GED, English language learners, and job training classes. Jack loved helping others succeed in the classroom and in the community.
Jack's personality was as big as his smile. He could walk into a room and immediately make friends with everyone. In his younger years he loved to dance. He also enjoyed cruising around town in his convertible, wind in his hair and a grin on his face. He loved visiting his daughter and grand dogs in Connecticut, visiting friends, and enjoying a good bourbon cream. He was always on the go.
He is survived by his daughter, Rochelle Whitchelo (Stephen Pickett). He was preceded in death by his wife, Michele Dee (Hacker) Whitchelo.
A celebration of life will be held during the summer months; details will be shared when arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local literacy or adult education program in Jack's memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Roberta Ladd Bodensteiner
February 11, 2026
Though I knew Jack in college, I met Michele when she taught in Japan. When she moved to the Cedar Valley, she met Jack and they had many good years together. Sympathy to Rochelle and family on their loss.
Kevin weber
February 11, 2026
Jack was my favorite teacher at elk run in the mid 70s. He always made learning fun and taught all the kids his famous hands behind the back stretch that is so relaxing I still do it to this day. Thank you for everything Jack you will be missed.
Roberta Bodensteiner
February 11, 2026
Though I knew Jack in college, I met Michele in Japan where she taught. When she came to the Cedar Valley, they met and had some wonderful years together. My sympathies, Rochelle and family, on your loss.
Tim Erickson
February 10, 2026
A truly amazing teacher and a wonderful man. He taught with so much heart and compassion. I feel so lucky to have been one of his students. He will be greatly missed.
How you can show support
Jill & Brian Fleming
February 10, 2026
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jack. He was very kind and accommodating when we visited in 1997 from England in pursuit of our shared family history. Condolences to Rochelle.
Deana
February 9, 2026
You were the best 1st grade teacher EVER! I always stated you were my favorite whenever asked if I had a favorite teacher. You loved everyone of your students and always let them know it too. Tell we meet again.
Deana Alston 1st class 82-83
Shelley Wach and family
February 8, 2026
Mr. Witchelo was one of those teachers who remain forever in your heart and memory! He was compassionate, caring, and funny, all at the same time! Condolences to his family!
Emily O Connell and Teresa Dybevik
February 8, 2026
Mr Whitchelo,My daughter went to Elk Run in the 80 s.She loved having u for a teacher .I thought u were great as well .Rest well,Please.
Lori(Phennicie) Delagardelle
February 8, 2026
He was at Elk Run when I had him as as teacher in the early 70´s.... He is one in a million. Always a smile on his face everytime I seen him throughout the years. Seen him in the fall and always knew my name and we´d always chat and laugh. RIP Mr. Whitchelo the heavens will love your smile and Red glasses
Sandra Hunter Hoskins
February 8, 2026
Everyone loved Mr Whitchel, kids and parents alike. You could tell he loved his job by the way he made learning fun. He had a good imagination. He went through the trials of losing his wife and raising their daughter alone.
If you ran into him when out and about he was quick to great you and would most likely no your name and children's name. Please let it be known we all felt blessed to know him and call him friend.
Brian DeVore
February 8, 2026
I went to Elk Run in the `70s and remember him with fondness.
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
4200 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
People and places connected with Jack
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Jack's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Jack Whitchelo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
