John Michael (“Jack”) Rubelman
February 2, 1958 - November 10, 2024
John Michael (“Jack”) Rubelman, age 66, passed away on November 10, 2024 with his four loving sisters by his side.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on February 2, 1958, he was the beloved son of the late Theodore R. (“Ted”) Rubelman, Jr. and the late Florence R. (“Flossie”) (Vassalotti) Rubelman. He leaves behind his sisters Kathy Baffone (Mike), Debbie Rubelman (Dave), Lisa Hernandez (Rick) and Nancy Rubelman; and nieces and nephew Mandi and Jill Baffone, Erica Rubelman and Jason and Liz Hernandez.
Jack graduated from William Penn High School where he was a cross-country runner, and went on to graduate from Del Tech with a degree in electronics.
Jack proudly served in the U.S. Navy where he furthered his electronics education, amassing several commendations. Being in the Navy allowed him to travel across the country, enjoying various destinations. He was stationed on bases such as Mare Island, Vallejo, CA and Chicago, IL. He used to joke that his toughest assignment was in Key West, FL. There he learned a great deal about the famous landmarks of Duval Street.
Jack was a die-hard fan of all Philadelphia teams, especially his beloved Eagles and Phillies. As he would often say, “Sunday is for the Birds.” His vast knowledge of sports and his memory for all players, stats, Superbowl and World Series scores was second to none, often talking specifics about games from over 50 years ago. With all of his travels in the Navy, he made it his mission to see as many major league ballparks as he could.
Jack had a great love of all genres of music. Some of his favorite artists were Muddy Waters, BB King, Sam Cooke, the Grateful Dead (attending a few of their concerts), Jimmy Cliff, the Beatles (to name only a few), and all music from the 60’s and 70’s. He also enjoyed watching his favorite TV shows M*A*S*H and Seinfeld, where we could hear his laughter throughout his house.
Jack had his challenges growing up with four sisters. He didn’t have much of a say in anything. Even as an adult, he took the “advice” of those four sisters whom he lovingly called the “General”, the “Colonel”, the “Sergeant” and the “Boss”. Jack loved his family and made it a point to tell them that he appreciated them as often as possible. His sisters will sorely miss him, but will keep him in their hearts forever. They couldn’t ask for a better brother.
Jack was a lovable soul with a heart of gold. Once you knew him, you remembered him and all that was good about him – his infectious laugh, his sunny disposition and his empathy for others. He faced his illnesses like a warrior, never complaining. He will be missed not only by his family and loved ones, but by all who knew him. He was funny and kind and made you glad that you crossed paths with him.
His family would like to give a special thanks to all the staff at the Helen Graham Cancer Center for the kindness and care they gave to him. They made his days there more bearable. A special mention to Michael at Helen Graham who was there to greet Jack at the door with a helping hand, a smile and kind words.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am until 12:30 pm on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 12:30 pm. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online by clicking here; or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 or online by clicking here.
Francis Burns
I knew Jack and his wonderful family growing up at Fatima and William Penn. His Dad coached me at Fatima . His family always had a great sense of humor. Jack led the calisthenics when we were on the WP track team . A great person , special . All who knew him will miss him.
Bob Pennypacker
I grew up on the same street as his family. Wonderful family Farewell my friend. Watching the games won’t be the same without you.
Ann Pennypacker Thielke
Kathy, Debbie, Lisa and Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss. Jack was such a great classmate and a loyal friend. I so enjoyed getting to spend all 12 years of schooling with him as a classmate. I remember ninth grade civics, when he was the electoral college for many states, I can’t even remember which ones anymore, and he gave all his votes to me. He did not divide them up among the candidates. What a loyal friend! He said we had to represent Our lady of Fatima well! Ha ha ha! And, what an inspiration he was in cross country running. I tried to keep up with him a few times, and he left me in the dust! I am so grateful for the knowledge that there was a great reunion party for him when he arrived in heaven! And he will be there to greet us when we all get there. Much love.Ann.
Mary Ellen
Jack he has the biggest smile. He was an Eagles fan he drew me in ha ha . Jack loved the blues so Debbie Jack and I joined my brother Carl for the blues. My heart is So sad Jack such an awesome soul. He has medical challenges for years but my God Jack was I got this. I pray Jack sees #1 with family and #2 with my brother in heaven Jimmy watching Eagles from above My heart and prayers with the sisters. I love you Debbie and family.
Mike Donahue
REST IN PEACE JACK
Rick n Peggy Fiorelli
We are so sad to hear about Jack. Our prayers and thoughts for all of you. 🙏 Rick & Peggy
Kathie Herel
Debbie, Nancy & family,
I am so glad I saw Jack outside recently enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. He looked so happy. You are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Jim Crook
Jack was a great guy who happened to be wrapped in a joyous soul. He will be so dearly missed by all who were touched by his kindness.
My prayers are with his beloved family though this trying time.
Joe Virion
Kathy, Debbie, Lisa, Nancy,
So sorry to hear about Jack. I have fond memories of running cross country and track with him at William Penn. He was a gritty competitor with a tremendous work ethic, but an even better teammate and friend. He will be missed.
Donna &Dennis Epley
Dennis and I were sorry to learn of Jacks’s passing. From talking with Debbie and Kathy over the years I realize that he will be sorely missed. Jack was so fortunate to have such a caring and loving family. Please accept our condolences and know you are in our prayers and thoughts at this time
Gina K
To Jack’s sisters: so sorry for your loss of a dear brother. He was very fortunate to have such a loving relationship with his sisters. I imagine you all had a lot of laughs throughout your lifetime together. Our chance meeting in the hospital was definitely by fate, coming full circle from our days at Our Lady of Fatima. May you all find peace knowing that you cared so much for your brother and cherish the moments and memories of time spent together. Made Jack rest in peace. And may God give you strength at this difficult time.
Nancy Weis
I am so sad to hear of Jack’s passing. For so many years he was the best neighbor anyone could have. He always had a smile and a quick hello. Being fellow Eagles fans was fun….win or lose. I am going to miss him a lot.