Jack Simpson Witter

Jack Simpson Witter, 98, of Owensboro passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. The Alton, Illinois native was born October 5, 1928, to the late Loren and Leona Witter. Jack studied geology at Southern Illinois University Carbondale before serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. A weather observer and meteorologist, he was stationed in Japan during the Korean conflict and later in Washington, D.C., where he met Mary Ida Cunningham. They were married on September 16, 1955, and shared 70 years together until Mary's passing on September 17, 2025.

Jack spent his career as a geologist in oil and gas exploration across the tri-state area, retiring from Har-Ken Oil Company in Owensboro. He was a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and Settle Memorial Methodist Church.

Humble, generous, and affable, Jack was happiest with family and friends. In his youth he frequented the big band scene in East St. Louis and loved to jitterbug. He was a longtime member of Windridge golf course, an avid rock collector, and a gardener in his earlier years. A devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan, he supported Mary's beloved team through thick and thin. His most cherished tradition was the annual fishing trip to Cooke City, Montana, with his friends and colleagues.

In addition to his parents, Jack also was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ida in 2025.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Linda Sarles (Richard) of Madisonville, and Diane Bowen (Brendan) of Carrollton, Georgia; grandsons Christopher Sarles (Amanda), Shawn Sarles (Kyle King), Michael Bowen (Rachel Ulrich), and Daniel Bowen (Evelyn Gibbs); great-granddaughters Natalie Bowen (Ipswich, UK), and Alyssa and Scarlett Sarles of Madisonville; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service for Jack Simpson will be 10:00 am Monday, October 26 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory with same day visitation from 9:00 until the time of the service. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice of W. Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301 or Heartford House, 2914 Old Hartford Rd. Owensboro, KY 42303.

Condolences and memories for Jack’s family may be left at www.glenncares.com.