John Switzer Jr.

Jack Switzer, age 86, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022. Jack was born on November 22, 1936, in Salt Lake City Utah. At a very young age, Jack and his family moved to Denver, Colorado where he attended St. Francis De Sales Grade School. Although he didn't know it at the time, he met the love of his life in the 5th Grade, Ann Matilda Young. Jack entered the Navy at age 17 and served for 3 years as an aerial photographer. After the Navy, Jack and Ann would meet again in Downtown Denver and very quickly married and remained married for 64 wonderful years. In 1959, Jack and Ann moved to sunny California where they proceeded to have 5 children, and then there were 7 in the family! In 1973, Jack & Ann and the kids drove their VW bus back to Colorado where he owned and operated T. Tailors for over 22 years. The other love of Jack's life was the great outdoors. He was a part of the Sierra Club and climbed almost all of the Fourteeners in Colorado. He had his family on the side of a mountain every chance he got. He was a mentor to many young people throughout his life, as a Big Brother, an Indian Guide leader, and a Grey Y leader. He gave his time generously and freely to all who needed it. Jack was also a soccer coach for many years and was the President of Cherry Creek Soccer Association. In 1995, he and Ann packed up their things and headed to Las Cruces, NM where they opened the Durango Bagel. This was a spot well-loved by many Las Cruces locals. After several years, they sold the business to their sons, and Jack became a world traveler and professional Grandpa! Jack was known for his sense of humor, his generosity, his love of the outdoors and great adventures, his positive outlook on life, and most of all his devotion to family. Jack is survived by his wife Ann, his 5 children Chris (On), Phil (Beth), Jacci (Wally), Pat (Lori), and Ken (Kelly), his grandchildren Josh, John, Jordan, and Sabrina, and his new great grandchildren Jeremiah and Joanie. Jack will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hills, mountains, meadows, lakes, and the hummingbirds he loved. No services are scheduled at this time. Donations may be made to Mesilla Valley Hospice, 299 E. Montana, LC NM 88005.