Lion Jack was a long time supporter of the Ohio LIONS Eye Research Foundation. He served as the Medical/Scientific Chair of the OLERF from the late 1960’s until 1996. Lion Jack will be missed but not forgotten. His good works with the LIONS and OLERF will live on, having made a difference in the lives of many.

Lion Jack, I had the pleasure to work with you and the Ohio LIONS Eye Research Foundation (OLERF) from 1982 to 1996 as one of the vision researchers funded by the OLERF. As a funded investigator, I know first-hand of the good that you, the research foundation and the Ohio LIONS have accomplished. The OLERF has a vibrant research fellowship program that you spearheaded and has helped train many young vision researchers over the years. Having filled your shoes as the Medical-Scientific Chair of the OLERF for the past 12 years, I know first-hand of the giant impression you left on the foundation and what a great stride you maintained to forward the objectives and goals of the foundation. I am still trying to fill your giant shoes. Although your body is no longer with us, rest assured that your good deeds continue to have an important impact on the foundation, on the research funded by the foundation and on Lionism throughout the state. Job well done!

-Lion Larry Leguire

FUGATE Jack Fugate, O.D., born March 27, 1927, a life-long resident of Columbus, died Wednesday, April 2, 2008, at the Convalarium at Indian Run, in Dublin. Preceded in death by parents Millard P. and Helen M. Fugate and daughter Susi Gray. Jack is survived by his wife, Carolee; former wife, Cassie Wolfe and their children, Debi of CA, Sandi (Tom) Little of VA and Steve Fugate of Pickerington. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan and Mallory Little of VA, Michelle and Mark Fugate of Pickerington, and Carlos Freeman of Bellefontaine; surviving cousins, Bill (Carolyn) Stoughton of Washington Court House, Shirley (Don) Carlton of Spokane, WA, Eleanor (Roger) Merrill of Columbus, David (Jean) Mayer of Palm Harbor, FL, and Rob (Maureen) Fugate of Galloway. Jack graduated from Bexley High School and served in the United States Navy during WW II. He attended The Ohio State University and worked in the College of Optometry as a parttime instructor for 41 years. He also practiced optometry for 52 years in Plain City and Columbus and served on boards and campaigned for VSP, Vision Center, Prevent Blindness and the Lion’s Eye Research Foundation. He was a life member of The American Optometry Association and helped establish the Diplomate program for optometry. Jack was nominated for a Jefferson Award for donating professional services to the homeless. He enjoyed playing tennis throughout his life and was a supporter and fan of the Jazz Arts Group. Jack was a member of Liberty Presbyterian Church and participated in activities with the “Top of the Hill Gang” Sunday School Class there. He also enjoyed being part of the “Travelin’ Group” in German Village for many years. A Memorial Service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, 2008, at Liberty Presbyterian Church, 7080 Olentangy River Rd., Delaware, OH, 43015, 740-548-6075. If they choose, friends may make memorial contributions to HomeReach Hospice, 3595 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43214, or OSU College of Optometry, attn. Gayle Glenville, 338 West 10th Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, in Jack’s memory. Arrangements by RUTHERFORD FUNERAL HOME at POWELL, 450 West Olentangy St., Powell, OH 43065, 614-792-1471