John M. Stack

John Stack

"So you, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And what you heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will have the ability to teach others as well." (2 Timothy 2:1–2)

It is with great sadness that we at William H. Sadlier, Inc. share the tragic news of the death of John Stack, National Sales Consultant. Though Paul was writing to Timothy in the above citation, this admonition also describes the life of our dear friend and colleague. John was working in Iowa when God called him home on Sunday, August 11, 2002. The grief due to his absence is piercing and deep. However, a brief look at John's life illustrates how his love, his faith, and his talents comfort us and leave a lasting legacy.

John Stack was unique. He lived and taught with verve, vigor, enthusiasm, and creativity. His deep love for his wife, Patricia, and their two children, Emily and Christopher, was known to the nation through the vehicle of his numerous presentations. John was believable because he was a believer. His natural affinity for caring for others enabled him to be husband, father, comforter, friend, colleague, and teacher.

John’s contributions to Catholic education were extensive. He served as a Catholic school teacher and parish catechist and assisted in many programs in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, which he was proud to call home. John joined Sadlier in January 1983 and in every capacity in which he worked over the years he helped to shape and strengthen the catechetical and educational products of the company. In April of 2002, the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the National Catholic Educational Exhibitors presented John with a Distinguished Service Award to honor his outstanding work in support of Catholic education.

As anyone who heard him could attest, John was a master storyteller. Whether he was with catechists in a parish, a diocesan convocation of teachers, or a national convention, John delivered his message with humor and an infectious style. To be with John was to be excited not only about the present moment but also about the moment to come.

Bill Dinger, President of Sadlier, warmly recalled that "John was truly one of a kind. His warm heart, great good humor, and style will truly be missed by all who knew him. Here was a man who in 53 short years of life affected the nation catechetically. He warmed our hearts as a true caring friend. In my mind, his legacy is as a wondrous, tender, and loving husband and parent, and a superb catechist. As one we pray, 'Go forth ye good and faithful servant.'"

John first brightened hearts with his birth on June 18, 1949. He earned a master's degree in communication from West Virginia University and a B.A. in education from Wheeling Jesuit College. He also pursued religious studies at John Carroll University in Cleveland. He and Pat had been married for more than twenty years.

We would like to assemble a book of remembrances, of messages to be presented to John’s wife Pat and their children. To contribute a special remembrance of John, please send an e-mail to us at: johnstackmem@sadlier.com.