John "Jack" A. Sheldon, 80, of Holton, KS, passed away November 14, 2020 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.

Jack was born February 10, 1940 near Vesper, Kansas, the youngest son of John and Alice Sheldon.

Jack graduated from Vesper High School and went on to Kansas State University where he was a member of the baseball team. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in education and later went on to earn a master's degree in administration from Emporia State University.

He married DeeAnn Freidenberger August 17, 1963 in Hutchinson. She preceded him in death on August 25, 2014. Also preceding him in death were his parents, John and Alice, sister Esther Horrocks, and his brother Dale.

Survivors include daughter, Tami Coe (Michael) of Perry, KS; 2 sons: Stephen Sheldon (Lana) of Holton, KS and Jarrod Sheldon (Leah) of Wamego, KS; and 10 grandchildren: Heidi Parker (Jason), James, Casey and Andrew Coe; Sonora Seacat (Connor), Walker and Cooper Sheldon; and Ellie, Maddie and Dane Sheldon and two great grandchildren Raegan and Avery.

Jack was a teacher, coach, athletic director, and then principal at Jackson Heights High School from 1970 until his retirement in 1996. He was best known for his competitiveness as a basketball coach. At JHHS, he produced many great teams including one state champion team. Six teams during his tenure went to the state tournament. At the time of his retirement from coaching in 1985, he was one of the winningest coaches in the state with a varsity win loss record of 264-78. He continually focused on fundamentals, teamwork, and character. After retirement he served as a para-educator in Holton helping elementary students read.

Jack enjoyed history and collecting antiques. He also spent much time taking care of his horses, mowing and general land maintenance. He continued mowing pasture well beyond the point of his ability to walk on his own. He spent many hours on the lake with his family and friends and enjoyed their house on Beaver Lake during retirement.

Private Family Graveside will be Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at Holton Cemetery. Due to Covid, Jack will lie in state Sunday, November 22 to Tuesday, November 24, 2020 until 5:00 p.m. at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton family and friends are welcome to stop in at their convenience.

Memorial contributions can be made to Jackson Heights Educational Foundation. Due to the critical situation our country is in, please remember the families during this difficult time and consider sending a card of condolence or posting on our website. Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. www.mercerfuneralhomes.com .