Elmer L. Jack"" Kaemper

Kaemper-Elmer L. "Jack" Kaemper, Jr., age 72, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2009. Jack was born on June 17, 1937, in Las Vegas, NM to parents Elmer and Eloe Kaemper. He is survived by his wife Carol, daughters Kelly Gillingham and husband Dave, Amy Lauer and husband David, and son Michael and wife Mary. He is also survived by his sister Sharon Geist and husband Jerry, two grandchildren, Joy Ann Gillingham and Michael Thomas Lauer, and infant grandson John David Gillingham who preceded him in death. Jack also leaves behind sister-in-law Mary Beavis and husband Leonard and numerous nieces and nephews who loved him. Jack was employed by the Albuquerque Public Schools for 38 years where he worked as a teacher, guidance counselor, staff coordinator and program manager for Neighborhood Youth Corps, Dial-A-Teen, and federally funded programs. Prior to retirement in 1994, he was an evaluation specialist in the Title I (Chapter I), programs in the Research, Development and Accountability Department in APS. Jack volunteered as an Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop #432, Boy Scouts of America for 17-1/2 years and also served as a Webelos leader. His interests included camping, backpacking, hiking, travel and reading. Jack will be especially remembered for his steadfast and compassionate nature, always willing to lend a hand of support wherever it was needed. After retirement, he volunteered at the Rio Grande Nature Center where he joined a team of fellow educators in the "Bosque Buddies" program that introduced neighborhood school children to the wonders of the Bosque. He continued in his role as educator, co-teaching classes at the Center each summer. Jack's concern for others was also exemplified by donating blood and platelets to United Blood Services of New Mexico for over thirty years. He was a board member of the Wesley Kids Preschool and Day Care Center at the First United Methodist Church where he sang in the Chancel Choir and worked as the church's official "Santa Claus" for 10 years. His love of music included participation in the Renaissance choral group Quodlibet and the University of New Mexico Chorus. The family of Jack Kaemper would like to thank friends and family for their love and support during his brief illness. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chancel Choir of the First United Methodist Church, PO Box 1638, Albuquerque, NM 87103, or the charity of your choice. Online condolences can be submitted at www.danielsfuneral.com. Services have been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 1100 Coal Ave SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 505-842-8800