Jack M. Linton

Jack M. Linton, 76, of Elkhart, passed away December 29, 2011 at 2:55 am at Hospice House of Elkhart. He was born July 23, 1935 in Peoria, IL to R. Jackson and Evelyn Elizabeth (McQueen) Linton. On July 12, 1959, he married Ruth L. Sriver, his college sweetheart, in South Bend.
She survives along with their children Mark B. (Kimberly) Linton of Elkhart, Leslie (Daryl) Greising of Elkhart, and Kirk (Mary) Linton of Bristol; and 6 grandchildren Brieana Linton, Scott, Ross and Derek Linton, and Erin and Luke Greising. He was preceded in death by his brother John D. Linton.
Jack was the owner of J.M. Linton Woodwinds, and a 52 year member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as Church School Superintendent, Deacon, Trustee and Elder. He also served on the former Family Counseling Board and was instrumental in the initial planning and development of the Samaritan Center. He loved gardening and orchids, which he successfully grew in his greenhouses along with numerous unusual and tropical plants. Sharing flowers and plants was his joy. His park-like gardens, which were open to visitors young and old, all through the year, gave him much pleasure. Music was not only his profession but his passion. He played bassoon in the Elkhart symphony and was involved in numerous musical organizations. He was a graduate of Elkhart High School and Ball State University, where he was a member of the Theta Chi Fraternity. He also studied in Mexico and was a veteran of the US Army.
Friends may visit the family Friday from 6 to 8 pm in the Reception Room of First Presbyterian Church, 200 E. Beardsley in Elkhart, and also one hour prior to the service at 3 pm Saturday in the Church Chapel. Rev. Stephen Braden will officiate. Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home at Cobblestone Crossing, Elkhart is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorials may be given to the church. Visit www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com to sign an online guestbook.