Jack Warkentine Jr.

Jack Leroy “Fat Jack” Warkentine, Jr., passed away on November 6, 2025, in Newton, Kansas. He was 73 years old. Born on June 27, 1952, at Camp Pendleton USMC in Oceanside, California. Jack spent his formative years in Wellington, Kansas. He graduated from Wellington High School before continuing his education and athletic pursuits at Butler County Junior College, where he played football. He later transferred to Bethel College in Newton, where he completed his studies and continued playing both football and tennis. Jack played in the baseball little league world series in Alaska in his younger days. Not many people can say they had that opportunity with a great group of guys.

Jack had a deep love for his family and took great pride in being present for the important moments in their lives. He was a devoted husband to Patty Warkentine and a loving father to Amanda Warkentine and Brett Warkentine and Jessica. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren—Cole Lujano, Tucker, Reid, and Sydney Warkentine—whose activities he followed with enthusiasm and pride. Family gatherings with friends were among Jack’s favorite times, filled with laughter, stories, and plenty of food and beer. He would do anything to help his family and friends with any tasks, whether it was painting a house, building a deck or laying carpet. He would give his shirt off of his back for anyone.

A passionate sports fan through and through, Jack was an unwavering supporter of the Kansas Jayhawks. Whether it was basketball season or not, he never missed an opportunity to cheer on KU—and to good-naturedly tease any K-State fans in his life whenever the Jayhawks came out on top, even if it was just the debate team that claimed victory. Other teams he was passionate about were the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals. He attended the BIG 12 tournament 43 years. One year was missed due to Brett being born. Jack did not feel right leaving Brett at 3 weeks old to attend that tournament, which showed his dedication to his family.

Jack also found great joy in motorcycling. He especially cherished rides through Arkansas with friends, relishing the open road and camaraderie that came with it. His most recent pride and joy was his Harley Davidson Trike—a symbol of freedom and adventure that brought him immense happiness. Jack enjoyed hunting with his friends. Whether it was deer, pheasant, quail or duck or just the comradery that came with it. You could also find him napping in the truck where it was warm.

He is remembered by those who knew him as someone who loved deeply and lived fully. His presence at sporting events—whether cheering from the sidelines or sharing stories afterward—was a constant source of support for his children and grandchildren. In his earlier years you could find him at the ball fields, and later in life he spent many hours on the golf course.

Jack was by trade a Master craftsman in Aircraft interiors. He was proud to have worked on Air Force 1, and other personnel jets owned by Ray Floyd, Jack Nicklaus and Phil Ruffin. He spent years working at, Windsor Mobile Homes, Wood Designs in Hesston, Hiller Inc, Executive Aircraft, and he retired from Textron Aviation. He developed lasting friendships that he valued from each of his places of employment.

Jack is survived by his wife Patty; daughter Amanda; son Brett and daughter-in-law Jessica; Grandchildren Cole Lujano, Tucker, Reid, and Sydney Warkentine; brother Bob Warkentine and sister-in-law Anne; sister Linda Frey and brother-in-law Monty; Brother-in law C.B (Cub)Schmidt and nephews Jason Warkentine, Zach Frey and niece Aspen Lott. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Sr. and Lavella “Micki” Warkentine, in-laws John and Deloris Schmidt, and nephew Eric Warkentine.

Arrangements are being made by Broadway Colonial Home, Newton, Kansas. Visitation will be November 12, 2025, 5-9 p.m., with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. Memorial Service will be November 13, 2:00 pm at Grace Community Church Newton, Kansas with private interment at Greenwood Cemetery prior to service. A Celebration of Life will be held November 14, 2025 beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Newton American Legion Post #2 where people are encouraged to wear KU or Chiefs apparel in honor of Jack.

May Jack's memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire laughter, loyalty, and love for generations to come