Dozens of neighbors turned out to give our beloved Brother Earl Jacklin a terrific birthday surprise on his 100th birthday yesterday, April 11, 2020. The event was covered by KSL Channel 5 and Fox 13 News. As of this posting, the videos from the broadcasts are not available online. If they become publicly available, the links will be provided here. A big “thank you” to Rick and Susie Austin for organizing this wonderful outpouring of love.
The following article was written by Roland Radack. It was forwarded to local newspaper outlets and may be published shortly.
The Show Must Go On . . . . . !
There is a phrase in show business that says regardless of what happens, whatever show has been planned still has to be staged for the waiting patrons. The COVID-19 pandemic, earthquakes, job losses and economic downturns have stopped many shows from going on these days. But in this Sandy neighborhood, the birthday show celebration went on for Earl M. Jacklin who turned 100 on April 12, 2020.
Months ago, family had prepared a big open house celebration to honor their father, grandfather, great grandfather, great neighbor and great friend only to be
disappointed with the stay at home, social distancing directive to keep people safe. So what do you do to “keep the show on” and “keep people safe”, you go to plan B (organized by some caring neighbors) – a drive-by wave and honk celebration for a very special person – Earl M. Jacklin.
On Saturday, April 11, 2020, almost 100 cars drove by the Jacklin home to “wave and honk” in recognition of a wonderful friend and neighbor. One hundred cars for 100 years of a wonderful life. Local television media were on hand to greet Utah’s newest centenarian.
Earl and his beloved wife Enid (deceased) had 7 children. There are now 22 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren. Last November, Earl was one of eleven veterans honored during the 22nd annual Veterans Day Commemoration at the University of Utah. During World War II, Master Sergeant Jacklin served as a radar technician in North Africa, Italy and Germany protecting Allied airfields and infantry units. Jacklin received the Bronze Star for his service on the Anzio Beachhead.
After the war, Jacklin earned his master’s degree in electrical engineering and worked in the aerospace industry before retiring.
Happy Birthday to our dear friend and neighbor.
Looking forward to next year’s 101 celebration!