Gerald (Jack) Wynkoop
5/29/28 - 3/27/02



Jack was born the son of Gertrude Summers Wynkoop and William David Wynkoop.
He was one of six brothers and four sisters (one of which was my precious Mother) all born and raised in Northwestern Pennsylvania.



His love for the outdoors and nature started at a very young age.
As a small boy; it seemed no matter how hard they tried they could never persuade young Jack to go to school.
They would send him off each morning, but inadvertantly he would spend all day long frolicking outside.
He just couldn't seem to be contented, cooped up inside; not when there was so much for a little boys eyes to take in, and all of natures wonders for an adventurous, inquisitive young mind to ponder upon.



Well; of course as time passed that adventurous little boy did grow up; to become a kind, good hearted and very knowledgable man, of that great outdoors, and that wonderous habitate he had grown to love.





And just as surely as it was meant to be, Jack became a "Park Ranger"
at Cooks Forest State Park

Cook Forest State Park

where he was instrumental in bringing about
~ "THE KIDDIES FISHING POND" ~
made for the benefit and enjoyment of the kids and for those handicapped.








I'd like to think that perhaps "if you look very closely" you might still find him sitting along side a beautiful, crystal clear creek, on a grassy green knoll, fishing pole in hand, smiling in the warmth of the sun, enjoying all the majestic wonders, and unimaginable, breathtaking, exquisite beauty of God's heavenly outdoor paradise.





Jack served his country in the United States Navy from December 13, 1945 until February 9, 1948.



He was given a Conservation Service Award in 1991 for providing outstanding service to the people of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in the cause of conservation and beneficial and valuable contributions to the programs and objectives of the Pennsylvania Fish Commission.





He received another award in 1999; from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
This time for his outstanding contribution as a Conservation Volunteer.
Not bad, for that adventureous little fella who always found his way somehow "off" of the beaten path, on his way to school.



So many of the important things in life are not always learned from the text books in school, but from the everyday things we encounter from the great "textbook" of life.
To know and understand the real meaning of learning and living and truly loving the very simple things found all around us.
A sunset, a grassy meadow, a field of wild flowers, the warmth of the sun on your face, a gentle breeze, a squirrel in a tree.



These are lessons taught, mother nature is quite the eminent teacher.
As God is quite the articulate artist, the painter, the master craftsman and creator.
These simple joys become beautiful important lessons in nurturing and growing.
May we each learn from a wise little boy's love for the great outdoors, and learn to enjoy the wonder and beauty in every living creature; great and small.
For they are all God's creation.



So we thank you for sharing your love of nature and your inner joy.
That which was learned, but from when; yet just a small boy.
The "simpliest of pleasures" brings the "greatest of life's treasures."
We hold them close to our hearts, right beside you.
Catch us a star Uncle Jack
We Love You




Graphics By Jen


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