Former WXXI-FM Classical announcer, Jack Ertle passed away on Friday, April 24, 2020 at age 89, just three months shy of his 90th birthday.
Jack, a Korean War veteran, was a true gentleman and life-long educator who lived what he loved. Jack taught business from 1957 to 1989, first at Charlotte High School and later at Marshall High School where he lead the business department. Teaching was a passion, from teaching Morse code during the war, to teaching young people about one of his true passions: classical music. His patience, kindness and quiet manner allowed him to engage with students in a unique way, helping them not only learn about the music, but also about respecting Jack's passion. My own children, now young adults, still remember when Mr. Ertle came to their school in West Irondequoit to teach them about classical music. It was not unlike Jack to stay in touch with some of his students: he'd even occasionally show up for one of their reunions.
Jack could often be found at Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra concerts, where he served as an usher for a time. When not attending classical concerts, he shared his love of classical music on he radio. First as a host on WGMC-FM, WRUR-FM and also WXXI Classical 91.5 where he served as a fill-in host. He loved sharing information about the music on the air, and many listeners expressed that they felt they were getting a "Music Appreciation Class" while listening to Jack.
Jack also taught piano lessons in his home, had a huge collection of classical albums and CD's and proudly shared that his favorite composer was Mahler. In fact, his license plate was MAHLER 7.
Jack also enjoyed sports and animals. If he couldn't get to a game, he would often listen to Buffalo Bills or Rochester Red Wings games on the radio. He was an avid bowler, often teaching young people how to bowl. And teaching extended to his parakeets, who he taught to speak.
Learn more about Jack, his family and future memorial service arrangements at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, Inc.
