We are men who lead, serve, protect and defend, whether we are giving out Coats for Kids, donating wheelchairs, lending a helping hand in disaster relief efforts, supporting local pregnancy centers or providing top-quality financial products.
Jack Ramsden, a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus Holy Spirit Council 8157, was honored as the Knight of the Year for 2018-2019, a testament to his tireless service and commitment to his faith, community, and council. A resident of Duncanville, Texas, Jack and his wife, Juanita, have been pillars of their parish and local community, exemplifying the values of charity, unity, and fraternity.
A graduate of South Oak Cliff High School, Jack furthered his education at Stephen F. Austin State University and UT-Arlington. His professional career spanned 24 years in the machine shop industry, where he served as president of a company before founding his own, Four Winds, crafting machine parts for clients across the Metroplex. His knack for building and repairing has proven invaluable in both his career and volunteer efforts. Officially retiring on June 30, Jack quickly transitioned to “full-time work” alongside Juanita, organizing rummage sales for the Fall Festival and engaging in numerous parish ministries.
In 2009, encouraged by parish founders like Dan and Ann Keough, Jim and Mary Flusche, Joan Allen, and Andy Goza, Jack and Juanita completed the RCIA program together, deepening their Catholic faith. Jack describes his time in church as a source of joy and peace, and when asked about his hobbies, he simply responds, “the church.” Their dedication earned them Council 8157’s Family of the Month recognition for July 2023.
Since joining the Knights of Columbus in 2012 alongside Doug Karpan and Billy Callander, Jack has been a steadfast participant, often the first to step up for tasks. His contributions extend to the Knight Hands program, where, on October 7, 2023, he joined seven fellow Knights—led by Director David Dybala—to replace a rotted fence for a resident at 415 South Alexander Avenue in Duncanville as part of the city’s Property Improvement Program. Alongside several of his brother knights, Jack helped transform this and several other Duncanville properties over the years, showcasing the council’s commitment to service. Jack is almost always present at any council activity that requires providing food or cooking a meal on the grill for any community group we help out throughout the year including St. Joseph’s Residence, an assisted living community for seniors in Oak Cliff, Dallas, or for our Veterans at the VA Hospital in Dallas. During our Lenten Fish Frys, Jack can always be counted on to assist with any kitchen chores, wheter it is in food prep or running the dishwasher room and very neatly putting back all the pots and pans.
Beyond the Knights, Jack and Juanita deliver approximately 4,000 Meals on Wheels annually, a service they’ve sustained for years. At home, they’ve raised four grown children and are helping nurture seven grandchildren, while also caring for five dogs, three of which are rescues. When asked about the best part of being a Knight, Jack’s heartfelt response was, “the guys,” reflecting the camaraderie and brotherhood he cherishes.
Jack Ramsden’s quiet determination, hands-on approach, and unwavering dedication to faith, family, and community make him a deserving recipient of the Knight of the Year 2018-2019 award, leaving a lasting impact on the Knights of Columbus Holy Spirit Council 8157 and beyond.
