In Memoriam — John (Jack) D. Shingleton

Jack Shingleton was a member of the Todd Martin Development Fund Board of Directors from its inception in 1994.  Jack’s interest in young people and their development both in the sport of tennis and in leadership training made him a natural to be on our Board.  Jack, together with John Shinsky, put together our training manual for developing our program.  He was an active and influential contributor.  He will be greatly missed.

"Among all of the great attributes Jack embodied, it was his attitude that made him such a great role model.  Regardless of the turmoil or tranquility that surrounded him, he used each experience, each day, and each moment to its’ fullest in the most positive manner possible.  Whenever I was with Jack, my outlook on life improved, my trials seemed less severe, and my opportunities more abundant.  Kipling’s 'If', one of Jack’s favorites, describes what it takes to be '...a Man...'  Fittingly, the verse 'if you can meet with triumph and disaster and treat those two imposters just the same,' sums up Jack’s attitude and everything he believed in life; it isn’t what happens to us that matters, it is how we react to what happens to us that matters."

Rick Ferman, Co-Founder, Todd Martin Development Fund

"I first met Jack when I was 13 years old and subbing in for one of his doubles partners.  He would have been 62 years of age at the time and he showed me a thing or two about how to play the game that day and several others throughout my childhood.  It was obvious that Jack did not act his age then, and that never changed.  He was still youthful and spirited when I last visited him in December, 2010.  Every time we met regarding the TMDF, on the court, or socially, his energy was focused on service and education. As one of our first Board Members, Jack championed LEADERSHIP and was instrumental in the forming of our Leadership Development Program.  His contributions are too numerous to comprehend, but Jack's spirit will never be forgotten and his friendship will always be treasured.  He was an amazing man."

Todd Martin

"I first met jack on the tennis courts at Michigan State some 60 years ago.  We’ve been friends ever since.  Jack’s experience at MSU in various leadership positions was invaluable to the Todd Martin Development Board especially in the areas of leadership training and fund raising.  We felt honored to have him on our board."

Dave Brogan, President, Todd Martin Development Fund Board of Directors

"My first encounter with Jack was at Court One Athletic Club (formerly the Lansing Tennis Club) when I was deciding to either pursue my Physical Education degree and teach school or my love for tennis and teach at the tennis club.  He smiled and looked into my eyes and said 'go for your passion as you will always be a great teacher in whatever field you choose'.  I loved to teach and help people accomplish their goals so I chose the tennis field and to this day I have pursued my passion for tennis.  I would see Jack many times at the club over the years and he always inspired me to be the best I could be and pass it on to the students I taught.  My mission is still being accomplished.

Thanks Jack!"

Sue Selke, Executive Director, Court One Athletic Clubs