Jack Decker, a graduate of Lincoln High School class of 1947, is well known in Vincennes for his lengthy career in the insurance business. Highly respected in the community and industry, he served as an insurance agent and advisor for more than 42 years, and he was co-owner of Decker-Fox Insurance for many years.
He also is recognized for his long-time dedication to the development and support of young people in the community. These wide-ranging interests include the YMCA, Boy Scouts of America, Vincennes University, and the First Christian Church.
Decker was a founding member of the YMCA Mens and Womens Club in 1970. Over the years this group has supported community projects and youth programs and helped raise funds for a variety of YMCA endeavors. He has served on the YMCA’s board of directors for 27 years. In earlier times he helped coach Y football teams and church league basketball teams.
Decker has been part of an alliance of host families whose friendship and understanding help Vincennes University international students adjust to being away from their homelands. Decker is a graduate of Vincennes University and is a past president of the VU Alumni Association Alpha Chapter.
Active in Boy Scouts of America, Decker was a board member of the Buffalo Trace Council for several years. In 1988 he helped form Arthur Foundation, of which he was a board member, to assume administration of the Camp Arthur scout facility. For his long-time service to scouting Jack was presented the Silver Beaver Award, the highest honor given by the Buffalo Trace Council. A Camp Arthur building—Decker Lodge—was named in his honor in 1999.
In addition to his student days at Vincennes University, Decker attended Purdue University studying horticulture. Some years later he enjoyed an avocation of growing orchids in his own greenhouse.
Decker’s other community memberships have included the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Elks Lodge, and Vincennes Masonic Lodge #1, which he joined more than 50 years ago.
Decker is married to the former Ardith Bilskie (LHS class of 1951) and they have four children.