Ad Astra: Javk Gornto, 17 April, 2007

JACK GORNTO MELBOURNE Jack Presley Gornto, 92, died on Tuesday, April 17, 2007. Jack grew up in Valdosta, GA and Miami, FL, with four siblings. In his youth, Jack was an outstanding runner, earning the Georgia state high school record for the 100 yard dash. His athletic abilities sent him to play tight-end for the University of Alabama and played in the Rose Bowl. He later served in the US Army in Europe during World War II, suffering injury and the loss of many friends. Jack married Elizabeth Shaw in 1947, shortly be fore coming to Melbourne in 1949, where they lived out the rest of their years together. He and Elizabeth had two sons, Sam and Ken. In Brevard, Jack served as an Assistant Fire Chief at Cape Canaveral's Missile and Space facilities and was a founding member of the Church of Christ of Melbourne. After retirement, Jack nurtured his golf game and friendships at the Melbourne Municipal Golf Course. He en joyed family, fishing and watch ing the Miami Dolphins as much as possible. His son, Ken, passed away in 2001 and Elizabeth passed away in 2003. Through joy and heartache, Jack kept a youthful heart and a warm sense of humor of which he used to love and to play. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Sam and Teresa Gornto of Melbourne Beach; grandchildren, Laura McMillan, Mark Gornto, Gena Hovey, and Alex Gornto; great grandchildren, Jessica, Chris, Abby, Jack, Winnifred, and Elizabeth all of whom called him by his name, Jack. Jack has been Sams hero. The loss of Jacks acceptance and friendship is profound. The family rejoices in the reality that Jack was a faithful believer in Jesus Christ and that he has completed his journey here on earth. Well done, thy good and faithful servant. The memorial service will be held at Brownlie-Maxwell Funer al Home, Saturday, April 28th at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vitas Hospice Care, 4450 W. Eau Gallie Blvd., Suite 280, Melbourne, FL 32934 in memory of Jack Gornto.