Jack Stapelmann

Jack Stapelmann died peacefully on July 9, surrounded by his loving family.

Anyone who knew Jack will tell you he was a thoroughly nice guy always pleasant, helpful, generous, and a good friend. Judy will tell you that he was a wonderful husband. Always agreeable, his courage and humor were evident to the very end despite a devastating illness.

Jack began surfing and boating as a boy on the East Coast. He came with his family to Santa Barbara in 1971 where he continued to surf and sail.

After attending SBCC, Jack used his experience in the family machine shop as he learned boat building. Eventually he would be involved in building many custom power and sail boats. He founded Access Marine Group and was proud to have helped build the first fixed-wing sail for an America’s Cup boat. Ultimately he and brother Frank designed and had built his dream boat, a unique 40ft sailboat. For the last few years, with the help of his brothers Frank and Ron, he was able to sail every week on Enchantress, his pride and joy.

After 30 years of friendship, Jack and Judy wed in 1994, followed by 30 years of married bliss. They enjoyed travel and were able to sail in many parts of the world. Their ranch in Hollister provided years of enjoyment, including surfing.

A lifelong guitar player, Jack was shy about playing in public. Few have heard him play, but many have admired the beautiful arch top guitar he built himself.

Jack was involved in the establishment of Santa Barbara Channel Keeper. He served on the Board for many years and was an effective fundraiser. He frequently offered a sailing outing to prospective donors. The standing joke was that he didn’t come back until he got a donation pledge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Channel Keeper.

The family express heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers and his Hospice nurses.