On March 14, 2025, the Mendel Catholic High School community lost a true icon with the passing of Jack Vlazny, affectionately known as “Mr. Mendel.” For over 55 years, Jack devoted himself to preserving the legacy of his alma mater and supporting the Augustinians who shaped it. His brother, Jim Vlazny (Mendel ’59), chronicled Jack’s remarkable journey in a heartfelt tribute for the Mendel Alumni Association Jack Vlazny Lifetime Achievement Award. Today, we honor Jack’s extraordinary life and the indelible mark he left on the Monarchs and beyond.

The Early Years: A Monarch is Born

Jack entered Mendel as a freshman in the fall of 1957, a pivotal year when the Monarchs clinched the City Football Championship with a dramatic 41-yard touchdown on the game’s final play. Growing up in Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood, Jack thrived amidst a diverse student body drawn from the South and Southeast Sides. Alongside classmates with familial ties to the school, he forged bonds across cultures and backgrounds—experiences that fueled his lifelong devotion to Mendel. Graduating in 1961, Jack pursued higher education at St. Ambrose College before embarking on a career as an independent insurance agent. Yet, his heart remained tethered to 250 East 111th Street.

A Call to Serve: The Football Banquet of 1969

Jack’s alumni involvement began in earnest in 1969, when classmate Dave Maher enlisted his help to promote a football team banquet. Alongside peers like Mike Sheahan, Jim Riordan, and Dr. Joe McCarthy, Jack rallied Mendel alumni for the event at Martinique Restaurant in Evergreen Park. The success of that evening sparked a passion for organizing that never waned. As Jim Vlazny wrote, “Jack enjoyed this his first organizing task on behalf of Mendel, and he never looked back for the next fifty-five years.”

Reuniting the Monarchs: A Tradition Begins

In 1971, Jack co-chaired the Class of 1961’s 10-year reunion with Dave Maher, setting a standard for future gatherings. About a third of the class attended, sharing stories and rekindling memories. Subsequent reunions in 1981, 1986, and 1996 followed, each with Jack at the helm. These events, often hosted by Dave Houle (Mendel ’56) at Rosewood West Restaurant in Crestwood, became a cornerstone of Mendel’s alumni culture.

When Mendel closed its doors in 1988 after 37 years, Jack attended the open house where memorabilia was distributed. There, Father Don Lewandowski, the last principal and a fellow ’61 grad, entrusted him with a list of 8,850 alumni names. Jack meticulously updated this roster, laying the groundwork for the Mendel Alumni Association’s future endeavors.

The Mendel Alumni Association: Keeping the Flame Alive

In 1996, Jack and classmates including Dan Lynch, Larry Bliss, and Jerry Luzzi revived the dormant Mendel Alumni Association. Their vision: an All-Class Reunion to unite Monarchs from all 33 graduating classes. Using the alumni list and sheer determination, Jack and co-chair Dave Maher orchestrated the first such event in November 1998. Over 900 attendees raised $10,000 for the Augustinians, cementing Jack’s reputation as a unifying force. He chaired the association until 2017, passing the baton to Mike Foley, who continues to uphold its mission.

A Legacy of Innovation and Celebration

Jack’s creativity shone through in initiatives like the Mendel Hall of Fame, launched in 1998 with 177 inductees—including Jack himself—under Bob Napoli’s stewardship. The Annual Golf Outing, another of Jack’s brainchildren, began that year and endures today, blending camaraderie with playful jabs at rivals like Mt. Carmel. Christmas gatherings at Mama Vesuvio’s East in Palos Heights, hosted by the generous Gino Maira, further strengthened the Mendel bond.

Leading with Purpose: Men of Tolentine

Jack’s service extended to the Men of Tolentine, founded in 1958 to support Augustinian seminarians. Joining the board in 1992, he became president in 1999, serving until 2012. Under his leadership, the organization raised over $250,000 through the Man of the Year Banquet, evolving into the “Friends of Tolentine” to include women. His efforts earned him the 2012 Man of the Year title and, that same year, the Augustinian honor of Affiliate “Filius Ordinis” (Son of the Order), a testament to his selfless dedication.

Accolades and Gratitude

Jack’s contributions garnered numerous accolades: the Mendel Alumni Association’s “Man of the Decade” (2000-2010), a plaque lauding his “great achievement, dedicated service, and exceptional loyalty,” and the Augustinians’ recognition of his devotion to faith, family, and community. Yet, Jack remained humble, crediting teamwork—learned from legendary coach Joe Magee—for his success. He often highlighted his wife Patty, his partner of 46 years, and brother Jim as pillars of support.

A Lasting Impact

Even after stepping down from leadership roles, Jack remained a steadfast presence—attending wakes, visiting elderly priests, and mentoring alumni—until his passing. The Southtown Economist once declared, “Reunions Ensure School’s Memory Lives On,” but Dan Lynch put it best: “Jack is Mr. Mendel.” Augustinian Bishop Dan Turley echoed, “Your dedication to keeping the flame alive…is truly amazing.”

As we mourn Jack Vlazny’s loss on March 14, 2025, we celebrate a life that embodied the Monarch spirit. With the blue and white guiding us, we sing: “Go, you Men of Mendel…loyal we will always be.” Rest in peace, Jack—your victory is eternal.