John “Jack” W. Innis, 66, of New Palestine, passed away on March 31, 2012. Born on Sept. 9, 1945, in Beech Grove, he was the son of John E. and Helen (Brownfield) Innis.
He graduated from Franklin Central High School in 1963, and earned his bachelor’s degree from Purdue University. Jack went on to earn his Master of Science degree at Butler University. Jack married Nina Jean Hawk on Sept. 3, 1967. He taught in Lawrence Township Schools and was the owner of Innis Small Engines and Innis Auto Parts in New Palestine. Additionally, he worked as a state representative for Tecumseh Engines and at Lucky’s Equipment in Greenfield.
Jack was a past member of the New Palestine Lions Club and Iota Lambda Sigma Honorary Fraternity at Purdue. He also served as president of the Purdue Reamer Club. In his younger days he enjoyed racing go-karts, including the Purdue Grand Prix. While his children were in school, Jack was involved with the New Palestine High School Band Boosters and coached girls softball. He served on the technical committee for the United States Auto Club and the Indy Racing League. He enjoyed working Indy Car events with his fellow race buddies. In addition, Jack was a member of the Old Timer’s Club at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Surviving him are his wife, Nina Innis of New Palestine; children, Stephanie Frans (Bill) of Seattle, and John D. Innis (Heather) of Mount Vernon, Iowa; granddaughter, Audrey Frans; and his aunt, Alma Brownfield of Indianapolis.
His parents preceded him in death.
Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. on Friday, April 6, 2012, at Erlewein Mortuary with a memorial service at 6:45 p.m. Pastor Paul Enyart will be officiating. Family graveside services will be Saturday, April 7, 2012, at the New Palestine Cemetery.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the St. Vincent Kidney Transplant Center, Hematology Oncology of Indiana, and the St. Vincent Hospice Center for their compassionate care and devotion.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent Renal Fund-St. Vincent Foundation, 8402 Harcourt Road, #210, Indianapolis, IN 46260.
Friends may share a memory or send a condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com or email condolences to [email protected].
