John T. Lord

John was raised in the farming community of Polo, in northern Illinois. Little "Jackie" Lord grew up with his brother Ron and sisters Ellie and Teddie, enjoying life on the farm. Summers always included family camping trips to Wisconsin and Michigan. His family lovingly called him "fat boy barbecue" since he was a chubby, cuddly little boy. Being snowed in from school was always special family fun which included playing lots of games. John attended a one room school in Polo, IL, where he was both the "highest" and "lowest" achiever in his class. He had the privilege of backing the teacher's car out of the garage which was something he cherished. He played the coronet in the band and football during his high school years. He obtained his Bachelors of Science in Education from Illinois State University and Masters of Science in Education from Southern Illinois University. John met Maureen through mutual friends while attending high school. They married March 29, 1969. Early married life was spent traveling to exotic places on passes through Eastern Airlines. Stacey was born in Illinois in 1972. Ten days later, the family moved to Lakewood, Colorado to build their family life. Three and one half years later, Christopher was born. John was a loving husband and father and dedicated family man doting on his four grandchildren, Ashlynn, Makai, McKenzie, & Tanner, and loving his children's spouses Paul & Lisa, as his own. He was very involved in his children's activities including Little League coach, soccer, swim team, church, camping, and music; always present at their events. Being an avid runner and bicycler led to many 10K's, marathons, and races. A scuba diving certification was achieved on his 50th birthday. Teaching was John's passion. His job as a high school teacher made way for many other teaching opportunities throughout his lifetime. John began his long career in computers and technology in 1972, starting at BEC and shortly thereafter at Lewan and Associates. He received numerous President's Club and other awards over his 22 years of service. Compaq/Hewlett-Packard caught John's attention, allowing him to extend his highly successful career with a team he thoroughly enjoyed. God has always been John's first priority. He was an active member of several churches during his lifetime; serving as an elder, Sunday School teacher, treasurer and on men's ministry teams. He was an inspiration to many. Most recently he was involved with planting a new church, Mosaic/Ambassador Church, where he was an integral part. His quiet demeanor, clever wit, kind and gentle ways, servant heart and willingness to help those in need were just a few of the characteristics that endeared him to so many. A friend once said, 'JOHN IS AN ORDINARY MAN AND THAT IS WHAT MAKES HIM SO EXTRAORDINARY.'