John “Jay” Thomas Faulks lived a full and rich 96 years.
April 10th, 2024 he gracefully embarked on his next great journey to be with his beloved Savior.
Jay was born December 11, 1927 in Oshkosh, WI; son of John S. and Lucille (Laabs) Faulks.
Following a brief time in Oshkosh, the Faulks family settled in Whitefish Bay, WI where Jay spent his formative years. He graduated from Whitefish Bay High School in 1945 and as he was walking off the stage with his diploma was handed his enlistment papers for the U.S. Navy. A testament to his love for his country.
Jay was a proud Badger at the UW-Madison graduating in 1951 with a degree in Business. While in college, a member Sigma Phi fraternity, a brotherhood which established relationships that lasted throughout his life, and created a legacy in which a son and grandson followed.
In 1952 Jay married his college sweetheart Aileen Boyd in Whitefish Bay. Together, they nurtured a legacy of love and devotion and raised their three children: Todd, Tim, and Susan in Mequon. Jay and Aileen had many hobbies including singing, gardening and anything outdoors. They shared their love for the outdoors and took many family trips camping and skiing around the country.
Professionally, Jay carved a distinguished career path in the realm of human resources, with a tenure of 20 years at Globe Union preceding his calling as Director of Human Resources at Master Lock Company in Milwaukee. His retirement in 1992 was followed with volunteering around the country and travels around the world.
Shortly later Jay and Aileen made the decision to move for six months of the year to “Narnia” their cherished haven nestled on the tranquil shores of Rainbow Lake in Waupaca. The winter months were spent in St. Petersburg, FL where they met a new community of snowbird friends.
The passing of Aileen after 46 years of marriage in 1998 was an emotional time, but Jay’s indomitable spirit and resilience sustained him through the darkness. Jay was blessed with a second love, Patricia (Pommer) Spick whom he wed in 2000. Together, they enjoyed 15 years of sweet memories before Patricia’s passing in 2015.
Jay’s legacy is etched in the hearts of his adoring family and friends. Jay loved his Lord, his family and his country. As he embarks on his journey, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who has the privilege of knowing him.
Jay is survived by his three children Todd (Anne) Faulks of Stevens Point, WI, Tim Faulks of Milwaukee, WI, and Susan (Duane) Spiegle of Eden Prairie, MN; nine grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren with one on the way; his sister Barbara Lanham of Waupaca, WI; and also by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Lucille Faulks; his first wife Aileen Faulks; his second wife Patricia Faulks; a grandson Stephen Michael Faulks; a brother-in-law Duane “Dee” Lanham; and a nephew Bruce Lanham.
A Funeral Service for Jay will be on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at 12:00 Noon at the First Baptist Church, 1500 Roman Road, Waupaca, WI. Pastor Larry Gross and Pastor David Landy will officiate. A visitation will be held on Tuesday morning from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the church. Burial will take place following the service at Lake View Memorial Park in Oshkosh. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
A special thank-you to the staff at Dimensions, Home Instead, and Interim Hospice for all of their loving and attentive care our Dad received.