John "Jack" M. Campbell

John "Jack" Matthew Campbell, 90, passed away peacefully at the Long Island State Veterans Home, May 9, 2023 embraced by his loving family's memories and the dedicated care of the staff. Born in Orangeburg, NY on November 4, 1932, Jack was the son of Mary Bieber and John Campbell, and was lovingly raised by his Uncle "Fritz" Frederick Bieber and his wife, May.

Jack's life was rich with service, dedication, and love for his family. He served his country with distinction during the Korean War, earning two Purple Hearts in 1951. Following his recovery in Germany, he returned home to serve on the United States Army Honor Guard until his honorable discharge.

Inheriting a passion for the trades from Uncle Fritz, Jack embarked on a lifelong career with Steamfitters Local #638, as a Union member for 72 years, with his skillful hands contributing to the construction of iconic structures like Madison Square Garden and the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center. His dedication to his trade saw him hired as Fitter in Charge on many projects. He was always active in his union and often elected as shop steward, as a United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Convention delegate, to the Trade Board where he served effectively as Chairman and the Executive Board at the time of his retirement. He retired in 1995, with a gold watch commemorating his half-century of dedication to his craft.

Jack was predeceased by his sisters Grace Hannigan, "Kitty" Catherine Jirak, and Geraldine McKeon. His legacy in the steamfitting field continues through his sons Michael and Robert, grandson Steven (deceased), and nephew Andrew McKeon.

His first wedding was to Virginia Miske in Manhattan in September 1952, a marriage that lasted until her passing in 2001. Together, they had four children: John (Carol), Michael, William (Susan), and Robert (Sun Hui). Jack was a loving grandfather to Meredith, Heather, William, Russell, John, and the late Steven (Carissa), and a proud great-grandfather to Emma, Riley, Jason, and Bella. He, also leaves the children of his late sister-in-law Nancy, Eric and Renee, late brother-in-law Richard, Caryn & Lisa, and late nephew Francis (Chickie), Matthew, Glenn, Kelly Ann, and many other nieces and nephews.

In 2002, Jack found love again and married Joan Koval Hudecek. Their wedding brought together a large blended family that included Joan’s children - Kenneth (Kathryn), David and Gail (Matt). Jack embraced them all, along with the grand children, Kimberli (David), Julie (Joseph), Daniel, Peter, Griffin, Laine, and great-grand children James, Amber, and Jacob who will miss him dearly along with the extended Hudecek family.

Jack's life path carried him to various destinations. His journey began with a challenging voyage by ship to Korea with the Army. As a newlywed, he traveled to Rome with Virginia, cherished family summers in Montauk, NY with the McKeons, and fishing the Atlantic Ocean in his own occasional vessel or on a party boat with his sons, grandsons, daughter-in-law or wife, Joan, also fishing in Alaska alongside his son, Bill. Jack and Joan embarked on numerous trips to Ohio to visit the Hudecek relatives, and they ventured to the Kentucky Derby once, enjoyed fishing and golfing in Florida with his cousin Lenny, and explored Las Vegas many times. Jack also cherished his time in Connecticut, traveling on the Bridgeport-Port Jefferson Ferry for special moments with his children and grandchildren.

Jack's journey through life was filled with an unwavering commitment to service, a deep love for his family, and a zest for adventure. He will be remembered for his courage, his loyalty, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to have known him. His memory will be treasured by his loved ones, and he will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Long Island State Veterans Home, 100 Patriots Road, Stony Brook, NY 11790, in honor of Jack's service and the compassionate care he received in his final years.

A private interment will be held at the Calverton National Cemetery.

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