John Keith “Jack” Langan, of Bainbridge Island, died Sept. 11.

He was born on Oct. 18, 1919 in Springfield, Ill., and grew up in Odell, Ill.

He retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years, which included service during WW II and the Korean War. He was the first member of his family to earn a college degree, a Master’s in educational psychology. He began his career as a teacher and basketball coach at Olympic Community College in Bremerton and served as director of military dependents’ schools in Europe in the 1950s.

He developed educational programs for Safeco Insurance and taught at many area colleges and universities. He later developed product lines for Pemco Insurance Company and concluded his career by playing a key role in program development in the Department of Business at North Seattle Community College. He was one of the first people to hold both CPCU and CLU insurance certification.

He was an avid fisherman, grandchildren’s playmate and natural athlete, declining a contract with a New York Yankees minor league team to enlist in the Navy after Pearl Harbor. He had a deep interest in politics throughout his life and remained a student of current affairs until his death. He enjoyed a good drink and a good hand of blackjack.

He is survived by his daughters, Peg Hall (Moss Patashnik) and Melissa Langan (Larry Sattler); grandchildren Tom Schrader, Sarah Pollard, Adrienne Minter, and Moriah Patashnik; and great-grandchildren Lacey, Jordan, Rachel, Kellen, Carmen and Camren.

There will be a family graveside service at Seabold Cemetery. Donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.