1934

Jack Shea, the patriarch or the first family to produce three generations of Olympians, more famous now than when he won the 500 and 1,500-meter speedskating gold medals at the 1932 Lake Placid Winter Games, died January 22. He was killed in an automobile accident just a few blocks from his home by a driver charged with driving while intoxicated. Jack was Americas oldest living winter Olympic gold medalist and was elected by his 1932 Olympic teammates to deliver the athletes' oath at the opening ceremonies. This honor also came to his grandson Jim Jr., who has continued the family heritage by qualifying for the Salt Lake city Olympic Games as a member of the U.S. skeleton team (he went on to win a gold medal in February). Jack's son, Jim, competed in three skiing events at the Innsbruck Winter Games in 1964. Despite urging by American Olympic officials, Jack refused to skate in the 1936 winter games in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, in protest of Hitler and Nazism.

Jack will always be remembered for the exemplary life he led in promoting the Olympic ideal of peace. He was so proud to be an Olympian. He believed the purpose of the Olympic games was to foster goodwill in friendly competition among countries. As an Olympian, he took his role as a peacemaker to heart. Those who knew him best referred to him as an "ambassador" and "icon" and an "inspiration." He was all of that, and a legend, too.

Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to his wife of 67 years, Elizabeth, and her family.

198-B Heritage Hills, Somers, NY10589