Jack Lee Hoagland Jr.
Last Updated on April 23, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network
Jack Lee Hoagland Jr. passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, in Fernandina Beach, Florida, just days after joyfully celebrating his 73rd birthday surrounded by family and friends. A man of remarkable charm, generosity, and spirit, Jack leaves behind an enduring legacy marked by laughter, music, storytelling, and adventure.
Born in Harrison, New Jersey, and raised in Logansport, Indiana, Jack’s early life was steeped in community, curiosity, and a love of nature—values he carried with him throughout his life. He was active in both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, later giving back as a Scout Leader for Troop 1147 in Pickerington, Ohio. He graduated from Lewis Cass High School in 1970 and attended Indiana University, though his greatest education came from a lifetime of rich experiences and the diverse people he met along the way.
Jack wore many hats throughout his free-spirited life. He helped open Disney World, owned and operated a pet store, managed a Sharper Image, worked in real estate, drove limousines, designed websites, and ran his own guitar shop. His most enduring contribution to the guitar community came through crafting custom guitar parts for musicians around the world.
Above all, Jack was a masterful storyteller, a passionate host, and a true “gentleman of leisure.” He was never happier than when surrounded by friends, whether tending his own bar at one of his famously unforgettable parties or pursuing one of his many interests. He was a founding member of BOHICA and the visionary behind over two decades of legendary houseboat and ski trips—gatherings that built lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories.
Jack’s joy for life was matched only by his love of travel. His adventures took him to many places, including Belize, Costa Rica, France, Greece, Turkey, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and throughout the Caribbean. He approached every destination, like every conversation, with curiosity, warmth, and a deep appreciation for connection.
He was a devoted and enthusiastic father to his two children, Mary Grace and Robert Chance, with Barbara Howard. He encouraged them to pursue their passions and to always remain curious about the world around them. His legacy lives on in their lives, and in the life of his cherished grandson, Bodhi.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Jack Lee Hoagland Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife of nine years, Karen Langenberg; his children Grace Chawla (Pranav) and Chance Hoagland; his brothers Robert (Teresa) and Jeffrey Hoagland; his sisters Mareian Birnell, Margret Jester (Les), and Caroline Palmer; his grandson Bodhi Chawla; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews who adored him.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at the home of Karen Langenberg in Fernandina Beach over the Fourth of July weekend. Further details will be shared in the coming weeks. Friends and family are invited to gather, raise a glass, and share stories in memory of an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. If you are unable to join us in person for the celebration, we would love to have you share with Karen Langenberg (karen.langenberg@gmail.com) or Grace Chawla (gracechawla23@gmail.com) a story or two that you have of Jack.
As Jimmy Buffett once said: “These moments we’re left with / May you always remember / These moments are shared by few / There’s wind in our hair and there’s water in our shoes / Honey, it’s been a lovely cruise.”
Condolences can be shared at www.oxleyheard.com.