Obituary of John "Jack" Patrick O'Rourke

JOHN PATRICK O'ROURKE

MALTA - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John "Jack" Patrick O'Rourke, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, veteran, and friend, who left us peacefully on April 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Born on July 31, 1946, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Jack was the cherished first son of Lawrence O'Rourke and Mary Carroll. He grew up surrounded by love and laughter, sharing countless adventures with his six siblings and a close-knit group of friends he affectionately called in his later years as his "Hoboken Crew." Jack's early years were filled with the warmth of family and the camaraderie of lifelong friendships, which shaped the kind-hearted and generous man he would become.

After graduating from Holy Family High School in Union City, New Jersey, in 1964, Jack answered the call of duty and was drafted into the United States Army, serving as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and he spent ten months overseas, returning home in 1968. Jack was a proud and decorated veteran, honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Bronze Star, reflecting his bravery and dedication to service. Upon his return to the United States, Jack went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1972.

In 1987, he met the love of his life, Tracy Rice. They married in 1989 and moved to Upstate New York, settling in Malta and raising their two cherished children, Kevin and Kelsey. For 23 years, Jack was the dedicated Bar Manager at Wolfert's Roost Country Club, making drinks, sharing stories and forging friendships that would last a lifetime. Following his retirement in 2012, Jack continued to contribute to his community, first as a school bus driver for the Saratoga Springs School District, and later by transporting veterans to the VA hospital in Albany through Saratoga County VA.

If you knew Jack, you knew his personality could fill a room and his storytelling abilities were unmatched. Half the delight was in trying to decipher the truth from the tall tales he spun with such charm and wit. Jack was able to find joy in both the quiet moments and the exhilarating adventures. He loved spending summer mornings in his backyard reading the newspaper with a steaming cup of coffee just as much as he loved spending his days at the Saratoga Racetrack. Jack's passions extended to his unwavering loyalty to the New York Yankees, the New York Giants, and Notre Dame. He believed in sticking with your team, through thick and thin, a testament to his steadfast character.

Jack's family was the center of his world. He cherished his roles as a devoted husband, loving father, wonderful brother, and beloved uncle. His most treasured title, however, was "PapaJack", a role he embraced with boundless love and affection.

Jack is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Tracy; his loving children, Kevin (Brianna) O'Rourke and Kelsey (Christopher) Murray; his adored grandchildren, Collins, Finnegan, Teagan and Delaney; as well as his two loyal siblings, Laurie O'Rourke and Lawrence (Elizabeth) O'Rourke; sister-in-law, Donna Carlson O'Rourke; brothers-in-law Jody Rice and Brian Rice; his big-hearted nieces and nephews, Linda (Wesley) Marsh, Jennifer (Jay) Holick, Elizabeth (Rick) Whiting, Molly (Charles) Strout, Tara (Clayton) Sayward, Debra Mangus, Ryan (Jennifer) O'Rourke and Devon O'Rourke, Kathleen (Jareth) O'Rourke, Michael (Maggie) O'Rourke, Eric Rice, John Lanahan, Kyle Rice and many spirited great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Jane (O'Rourke) Reed, Patricia O'Rourke and Nancy (O'Rourke) Jordan; brother, James O'Rourke; and in-laws, Richard Jordan, Jerry Reed, Laurie Rice.

Jack will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In keeping with his wishes, a private memorial service will be held to honor his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Saratoga County Veterans Trust Fund in Jack's memory.  Donations may be sent to Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency, 2144 Doubleday Ave Suite 15, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. 

Arrangements have been entrusted by the family to the care of The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham. For further information or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.