John “Jack” Young Findleton, 1948 – 2020 , age 71

Jack, a native New Yorker, was raised on Long Island Sound, Jack entered the military and served in Viet Nam with the 101st Airborne Division in 1967-68.  After college and as a businessman, his company relocated him to California.  After doing his time as one of those suit kind of guys, he followed one his life time interests and founded Sacramento Sportfishing Guides in 1983.

Jack Findleton, known to many in the Sacramento area as Captain Jack of Sacramento Sportfishing Guides captained on the Delta for over 35 years.  Captain Jack’s reputation was built on fishing the famed California Delta, fished Stripers and Sturgeon.  His trips always included talking about the techniques and tackle,  the  whys, the hows, the wheres and what he was doing whether you wanted to know or not.  Jack spent many summers guiding in Alaska at Whalers’ Cove Lodge where he guided his client for Salmon, Halibut, and other species and fulfilled their bucket lists like a pro.

 Most folks know Jack as the voice for the Lowrance Training Center with the International Sportsmen’s Expo.  He covered all the markets for years and taught many anglers how to use the constantly changing electronics.  There is a lot to know about Jack, he was the founder of the Sacramento Chapter of the California Striped Bass Association following his love of the sport of fishing and his advocacy of conservation and preservation for our future generations.  Because of his dedication, he was appointed to the State of California Striped Bass Stamp Advisory Committee. 

In 1985 Jack commanded the water operations for the Humphrey the Whale rescue. This gave Jack the claim to fame of co-authoring the book, The Great Whale Rescue. As far as we know this is the only adult book on the rescue.

Jack faded into the background of many activities for several years as he fought cancer and other health issues.  Jack continued to enjoy being with his family and friends. He restored his Christian faith and became an active member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd.  Listening to his friends, Jack is known as being friendly, entertaining, funny and informative as always.  He was a true friend and a great guy.

Jack is survived by his wife, Olive; his two daughters, Elizabeth with son-in-law Darin, and Carrie; his four grandchildren, Makena, Andrew, Jude, and Jozef; as well as his sister Susan with brother-in-law Bobby.

He will be missed.