John “Jack” F. Rotole 7/9/1943 – 4/30/2024
John F. “Jack” Rotole passed away peacefully at home on April 30, 2024 with his true love, best friend, and spouse of 40 years, Jackie, at his side while being serenaded by Elvis.
Jack was charismatic, dynamic and a true force of nature. He filled a room when he entered it. He was an eternal optimist, a loving spouse, grandfather, sibling, uncle, cousin, and a loyal friend. In return, he was well loved by his family and lifelong friends with whom he spent many happy times. His family greatly admired him, loved being with him and sought his advice. When you were with Jack, life just felt good. He had a sharp wit, keen intellect and a wonderful sense of humor.
Jack was a proud Denver native, born on July 9, 1943, to an Italian Irish family. He was one of nine siblings. He loved Denver, his many red Corvettes, his “rock and roll emporium” Coors Light, Denver professional sports, and traveling to Sanibel Island, Hawaii and Italy. He was a huge Elvis fan. He liked to discuss and argue politics, philosophy, the law, current events and sports. He was never at a loss of words.
Jack loved being a lawyer. He practiced law in Colorado for 52 years. He began his legal career as an assistant District Attorney in the Denver District Court. In 1974, he and some of his law school classmates started their own private practice where Jack practiced law until his death. He was a highly successful, gifted and skilled trial lawyer and possessed considerable legal acumen for which he received many accolades. He was greatly admired by his peers, judges and clients. Jack was a champion of the underdog, a fierce advocate and man of compassion. His law partners, associates and employees appreciated his generosity, leadership, kindness and wit.
Jack is survived by his spouse, Jackie, his stepsons, John (Christine) and Christian (Michelle) McConnell and his grandchildren Isabella and Johnny McConnell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Phil, Joe and Jimmy Rotole. He is also survived by his siblings Trudy (Jerry) O’Connor, Bob Rotole, Dick (Sheri) Rotole, Mary Yeager, Beverly Rotole (spouse of the late Phil Rotole), and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Some people’s lives shine so brightly that when they pass the light remains. Jack’s light shines on in all of his family. There will be a celebration of Jack’s life at the Denver Botanic Gardens on August 13, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Memorials in Jack’s name may be directed to the International Myeloma Foundation and the Denver Dumb Friends League.