John E. Jackman

John E. Jackman, 58 of Mansfield, CT died peacefully at home after a long battle with cancer on August 8, 2013. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Ione (Kompare) Jackman, son Greg Jackman, parents Jane and Robert Jackman and brother Paul Jackman and his wife Carol. John had an unfailing zest for life and deep commitment to his family, friends and public service. He began his 44 year career in the Fire Service at age 15 as a volunteer at Mansfield Fire Department, and progressed from a career firefighter/EMT to Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Marshal/Emergency Management Director for the Town of Mansfield. John earned degrees in Fire Protection Administration and Industrial Engineering/Manufacturing Technology. Over the years he served on many town, county and state boards and committees, most recently the Connecticut Codes and Standards committee. He served as President of both the Windham County and Connecticut Fire Marshals Associations. He received many service awards, including the State of Connecticut General Assembly Citation. He dedicated his life to Public Safety and unfailingly stood up for what he believed was right. He rarely missed the chance for a lively, good-natured debate, and strove to maintain a positive attitude and outlook. In battling his cancer, he chose the more difficult treatment path and was rewarded with many additional years of quality life. John loved to cook (and eat), and honed his culinary skills on willing and grateful family and friends. He enjoyed many memorable skiing, backpacking and camping trips with his son Greg. His passion for bicycling inspired many to start riding, and through the Thread City Cyclers club he made many deep and lasting friendships. His epic bicycling trips in Alaska, Colorado, Iowa, New England and the "Ridge of the Rockies" from Canada to Mexico were a source of pride and accomplishment. At his retirement reception the Town of Mansfield honored him by renaming their annual bicycling event "The John E. Jackman Tour De Mansfield". He lived his life to the fullest and generously shared his gifts, knowledge and humor with those around him. We will miss him. Calling hours will be from 5-8pm on Tuesday, August 13th at the Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St, Willimantic, CT. Funeral service will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas, 46 N. Eagleville Rd, Storrs, on Wednesday, August 14th at 10am, followed by burial and luncheon. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mansfield Fire Department c/o Dave Dagon, 4 South Eagleville Rd, Storrs, CT 06268, or Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, PO Box 27106, NY, NY 10087-7106. Please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com for online memorial guest book.