John "Jack" R. Shelker

John Ronald Shelker (Jack) was born in State Center, Iowa on November 7, 1936 to John and Wadena (Blink) Shelker. Jack was little brother to three sisters and big brother to one sister. Needless to say, he was picked on by the three older ones and adored by the younger one. The family lived in rural Rhodes, Iowa until 1940 when they moved to the farm northwest of Dawson, Iowa. Jack attended Dawson public school from kindergarten to graduation in 1954. After graduation, Jack helped on the farm, worked for the railroad, and did construction. He also served in the Army and National Guard. Jack later worked at Oscar Mayer Meadow Gold and retired from Percival Scientific Inc.

Jack’s yard, flowers and vegetable gardens were proof of his love and ability to grow most anything. Woodworking and remodeling were other hobbies. His happy place was the garage where you could usually find him working on his latest project or cleaning up the mess he made.

Jack had one son (his pride and joy) and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Wendy Shelker of Dillion, Colorado. On May 12, 1979, Jack married the love of his life, Becky Timmins. They had nearly 46 great years together.

Jack was proceeded in death by his parents, John and Wadena; sister, Juanita Davis; brother-in-law, Bob Van Zee; nephew, Bruce Van Zee; sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and John Hammer, sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Jim Cassady; two brothers-in-law, Kenny Flammang and Brad Timmins. 

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Becky; his loving son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Wendy; his sister, Marilyn Van Zee; sisters and brothers-in-law, Donna Flammang, Tim and Debra Timmins, Carolyn and Dale Kass, Cindi and Dennis Young; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Jack passed away on January 28, 2025 at Eden Acres in Perry in the company of his wife, Becky, sister, Marilyn, niece, Teresa Van Zee, sister-in-law, Carolyn Kass and Father Litto.

Jack will be remembered as a man of strong faith, love of family and a great work ethic. He had a dry sense of humor, he was kind, humble, and thoughtful. Jack was a good person. He will be missed. I love you Jack a bushel and a peck, Becky.

Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday March 7, 2025 at St Patrick Catholic Church in Perry, Iowa. Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., until time of the service. A luncheon will follow the Funeral Mass in the St Patrick School gymnasium.

Thank you for honoring Jack with your presence.