A beloved husband, father, and longtime PE teacher and coach, Jack E. Schult, passed away on October 28, 2025, at the age of 87.
Jack is survived by his wife, R. Susan, his daughter, Jacqueline Sue, and his son-in-law Joshua.
Terry Vandervate, one of his friends, wrote:
Rip Jack! I enjoyed finding and selling collectibles with you.
Terry Vandervate
Born on September 26, 1938, in Lafayette to Walter and Mary Schult, Jack grew up in the area and graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School in 1956.
Later, he attended Purdue University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in science.
It was Jack’s passion for youth education that led him to serve the Lafayette Jefferson School System for 50 years.
During his time at the school, he served as head of the Health and Physical Education Department for 36 years and as assistant athletic director for 20 years.
He spent his days teaching kids about fitness and leading teams on the court and field.
As a coach, Jack made a real mark on several lives. He took the boys’ tennis team to a state championship in 1975 and a runner-up spot in 1976.
Jack helped as an assistant coach for the 1964 boys’ basketball state champions.
Likewise, he also helped as an assistant coach for the 1967 Boys Football State Champions and the 1973 Boys Basketball State Champions.
It was Jack’s work that earned him spots in the Indiana Tennis Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Lafayette Jefferson High School Hall of Fame in 2013.
Similarly, in 2017, Governor Eric Holcomb gave him the Distinguished Hoosier Award.
Apart from his contributions to education and sports, Jack was active in the community. He was part of the John Purdue Club, Purdue Alumni Association, Lafayette Jeff Boosters Club, Lafayette Country Club, and the Boys & Girls Club of America.
Likewise, he also served as president of the local Boys & Girls Club of America in 2007.
In his free time, Jack collected antique memorabilia, played golf with friends, and listened to Frank Sinatra. He had a fun brush with the movies, appearing as an extra in Hoosiers and 8 Men Out.
People will undoubtedly remember Jack for the way he guided students and athletes with passion.
Visitation starts at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Saint Boniface Catholic Church in Lafayette. Burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery in Lafayette.
During this difficult phase, we pray for the strength of John’s wife, son, friends, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Jack E. Schult!
