Jack Denzil Chadwick

Jack Denzil Chadwick, 81, dual resident of Newton and Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., passed away at 3:15 a.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021, at Hospice located in Jupiter, Fla.

Jack was born May 25, 1939, in LaPlata, Mo. He was the eldest child of Dena Fern Chadwick (Rime) and Denzil Chadwick where he resided before moving in seventh grade to New London. It is here, where at the age of 12, Jack met the love of his life, Diane Kay Harper. And thus, begins the story of “Jack and Diane”.

After graduating from New London High School in 1957, he earned a bachelor of science degree in education from Northeast Missouri State University where he also played college basketball. He would later earn a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla. Jack was a member of St. Luke United Methodist Church in Newton.

Jack served in public education for 36 years; the majority of which were in Newton. Jack taught American history and served as guidance counselor. Jack also had a passion for sports where he coached basketball, football and his lifelong passion of golf. After retiring from Newton High School, Jack continued his love for the game of golf by coaching at the American Institute of Business (AIB) in Des Moines.

During his tenure at Newton High School, Jack led the boys golf team to two State Championships, three runner-up teams at the State Tournament, coached 12 teams to Conference titles, and coached two individual State Champions. Jack was twice named Conference Coach of the Year and was nominated twice for National Golf Coach of the Year. Upon retiring from coaching, Jack was one of the first two golf coaches inducted into the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame.

Jack’s love for coaching and the game of golf was contagious. More than 20 of his student-athletes have pursued careers in golf. Coach Chadwick said he had a true connection with every one of his golfers. He would say although he was teaching them, he was learning so much from them.

Jack and Diane were married June 2, 1963, in New London. They were blessed with three children, Brian, Carrie and Chad. His wife and three children were the focus of his life. He was so appreciative of the joy and the abundance of love they exchanged throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Harper Chadwick, dual resident of Newton and Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; three children, Brian Chadwick of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Carrie Chadwick Williams (Pete) of Juno Beach, Fla., and Chad Chadwick (Angie) of Omaha, Neb.; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his sister, Carol Sue Klein of Osceola.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and stepfather.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In recognition of golf teams coached, friends he played with, and all lovers of the game, we ask that any memorials be sent to: City of Newton: Westwood Clubhouse Fund, 3387 Highway F48 W., Newton, Iowa 50208.