Jack Overbye

Jack Overbye lived a remarkable life-a life defined by love, generosity, curiosity, and quiet strength. On May 4, 2025, surrounded by his adoring family, Jack passed away in St. Paul, Minnesota, at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that spans generations and touches countless lives.

Born on February 3, 1935 and raised in Grafton, North Dakota, Jack was shaped by the steady values of his upbringing. A natural student and enthusiast, he played saxophone in the Grafton High School marching band and proudly performed at the 1953 Rose Bowl parade. He later attended the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1958 with a business degree that launched a successful lifelong career in manufacturing and sales.

Jack met the love of his life, Ginger Mears, at Whitefish Lake. The two were married in 1958 at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, beginning a 67-year journey marked by unwavering love and shared purpose. Jack remained deeply involved in the church for decades, serving as a deacon and trustee, and finding joy in community and faith.

Shortly after their wedding, Jack answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Army where he served two years in the 544th Ordnance Company at Ft. Polk, Louisiana. His time in uniform deepened his discipline, broadened his perspective, and reinforced his unshakable calm-qualities that marked the rest of his life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ginger, and their children Mark (Susie) Overbye, Ann (former spouse Steve) Burbidge, and Julie (John) Ledy. Jack was a devoted grandfather to Keely (Marc) Hirschmann, Lexi (Daniel) Barton, Griffin (Austin) Overbye, Kevin (Kathleen) Burbidge, Andy (Marney) Burbidge, Jack (Sophie) Burbidge, Jenna (Danny) Huiras, Chad Ledy, Jillian (Shea) Ledy, and Chloe (Ian) Ledy-and a doting great-grandfather to 12 great-grandchildren. Jack's deepest joy came from time spent with his family-at birthdays, holidays, and every gathering in between. He was always fully present, eager to help, share a story, or offer one of his legendary hugs.

Jack had a heart wired for giving. Alongside Ginger, he quietly changed lives-supporting adoptions, funding educations, and extending a hand to family and strangers alike. His generosity was not performative; it was simply who he was.

Professionally, Jack led innovation and growth as President of Boat Armor Marine Products, overseeing key developments and multi-state manufacturing expansion. After retiring, he pursued real estate and consulting work-careers he never truly stepped away from, because he loved solving problems and helping others succeed.

A proud 50+ year member of Rotary, Gyro and several other civic and social organizations, Jack was respected not only for his leadership but for his kindness, curiosity, and humor.

He loved to tinker-cars, boats, motors, anything mechanical-and there was scarcely a thing he couldn't fix. His practical wisdom, paired with his patient demeanor, made him a trusted advisor and friend.

Adventure and exploration were at the heart of Jack's spirit. He was a skilled pilot with multiple certifications and spent 40 years flying his Cessna airplanes. He skied with family well into his 80s, especially cherishing the sweeping descent of his favorite run, Another World, in Park City.

Whether fishing quiet northern lakes or boating across Minnesota waters, Jack found joy in motion and discovery. He and Ginger traveled the world-often with children and grandchildren in tow-from sun-soaked shores to snowy peaks, from tracing his Scandinavian roots to strolling through European cities. Ever the thoughtful planner, Jack curated each journey with care and flair, transforming every trip into a treasured chapter of family memory.

Jack Overbye had a gift for conversation, a warmth that drew people in, and a heart that gave without hesitation. His steady presence, loving nature, and generous spirit will be missed beyond words-but remembered always, in the lives he shaped and the love he shared.

Services to be held May 19, 2025 at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, visitation at 10am, service at 11am, lunch to follow.

Memorials: The Nest Retreat Center's food shelf garden http://thenestretreatcenter.org/