John P. "Jack" Councilman Jr., 91, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026. Born in Montague, Massachusetts, Jack lived a long and remarkable life defined by devotion to family, service to his country, and a steady, generous spirit that touched everyone who knew him.
At age 19, while attending flight training school in Laredo, Texas, Jack married his high school sweetheart, Judith Ann. Their partnership became the foundation of his life, carrying them through decades of adventure, challenge, and joy. Judith Ann passed away on Feb. 19, 2001, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and devotion that shaped their family.
Upon completing flight training, Jack was assigned to the 456th Fighter Interceptor Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida. His skill and dedication as a pilot led to later assignments at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska, Castle AFB in California, and McGuire AFB in New Jersey.
Jack primarily flew the F-106 Delta Dart, a Mach 2.36 interceptor considered extraordinarily fast and advanced for its time. He carried deep pride in his service and in the aircraft he mastered, remembering those years as some of the most defining and meaningful of his life.
In 1967, Jack transitioned to civilian aviation, flying for Pan American Airways, traveling the world and gaining experiences few ever have.
In 1977, Jack moved his family to Gunnison, embracing a quieter life in the mountains. After a short period selling real estate and working alongside his brother Bruce and his son John, Jack found his long-term calling with the United States Postal Service. He served with dedication until retiring in 1995 and is fondly remembered as the Postmaster in Almont.
During those Gunnison years, Jack and Judith created a home on East Georgia Street that became a gathering place for friends, neighbors, students, and anyone who wandered in. Their home was known for warmth, laughter, and a sense of belonging.
Some years after Judith’s passing, Jack reconnected with Bobby Lovering, a family friend from his Air Force days. Their friendship deepened into companionship and love, and they married in 2007. Jack is also survived by Bobby, his stepdaughter Lisa Lovering, and is preceded in death by his stepson Steven (2003).
Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife Judith Ann, his daughter Lynn Duncanson, and his brother Bruce Councilman.
Surviving family members include his children and their spouses, listed here: Lori and Joe Salmon of Gunnison; John and Lisa Councilman of Crested Butte; Karla and Richard Eflin of Glenwood, Iowa; Karen and Paul Ramsdell of Plymouth, North Carolina.
Surviving extended family members include: Tom Duncanson, husband of Lynn; Kitty Councilman, wife of Bruce; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, each carrying forward pieces of his humor, character, and gentle strength.
Jack’s life spanned nearly a century of change. He witnessed the world transform in ways few generations ever see, yet he remained constant — grounded in his values, loyal to his family, and guided by a quiet strength that never wavered. He was the kind of man who didn’t need to be the loudest in the room to make an impact. His presence alone brought steadiness, comfort, and a sense of home.
He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his patience, and the way he offered support without ever asking for anything in return.
A private family gathering will be held to honor Jack’s life and celebrate the memories he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Compassus Hospice, 84 NE Loop 410, San Antonio, Texas 78216.
