JACK F. FRUITS, 89, lifelong resident of Cowley County, passed away January 16, 2014 at Cumbernauld Village with his loving family at his side.

Born September 10, 1924 in Udall, Kansas, he was the youngest of seven children born to George and Jennie (Buckles) Fruits. Jack was raised and educated in Udall and Winfield and graduated Winfield High School in 1942. He joined the United States Army at the age of 18 and served in Europe with the 71st Division as a medic during WWII. After his honorable discharge, Jack returned to Cowley County and was co-owner of Winfield Floral Co., Floral Shop and Greenhouse from 1946 to 1989. He brought much beauty and joy to all who knew him.

Mr. Fruits served as Class Treasurer for the Class of 1942 for much of his life. He was a member of the Elk's Lodge, a long time member of the American Legion Post #10 and was a past Commander for the VFW Post #3544. He enjoyed growing plants and flowers, woodworking, fishing, cooking and traveling.

A much loved family man, Jack is survived by:
His wife of 42 years: Dorothy Fruits of Winfield;
His daughter: Cheryl Lynn Higgins of McPherson;
His son: Timothy Fruits of Ormond Beach, FL;
His stepdaughters: Gretchen Kittelson and husband, Randy of Winfield; and Hilda Sumner and husband, Marcus of Wichita;
His daughter-in-law: Rosalie Fruits of Ponca City, OK;
13 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren and one on the way; and
Many nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, George and Jennie Fruits, Jack was preceded in death by his son, Gary Joe Fruits, stepdaughter, Rachel Cooper, stepson, Danny Fruits, brothers, Richard, Roy and Benjamin Fruits and his sisters, Esta Wise, Ethel Randall and Georgia "Pearl" Haskins.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. at Miles Funeral Service. Military Committal Honors will follow at Oxford Cemetery in Oxford.

A Memorial has been established in Jack's name for the Wounded Warrior Project. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.