John "Jack" Alexander Couch's Obituary
John “Jack” Alexander Couch, of Decatur, IL, died August 9, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents Oza Lee Couch and Lorelda Couch, his brothers Donald Couch and Richard Couch. He is survived by his Sister-in-law, Theresa Couch.
He was known to most people as Jack. Jack graduated from St Teresa High School. Furthering his education, he received his Bachelor and Master’s degree in History from Illinois State University in Normal, IL and his Doctorate in History from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.
Jack’s family started and owned both Ben Franklin (1956-1964) and Four Seasons (1964-2004) in Tuscola, IL. Both retail operations were well known and highly regarded by both competitors and customers.
In 1987, Jack and his brother, Richard “Dick” Couch started the Duke of Wellington Art Studio, a distributor and creator of fine art to National and International World Leaders as well as well-known collectors, national and international Museums, as well as the White House. He was highly respected, well known in the industry, and held in high esteem by his clients and collectors.
In his personal and professional life he made a lasting impression on those he met who instantly thought of him as a friend whether it was recently or over his lifetime. He was an outgoing individual who used his intelligence and humor in conversation, blended with kindness and generosity, that all who met him remember. This tapestry of the best of human traits led to his empathy and generosity to those less fortunate.
He will be missed greatly by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at 11am on Tuesday, August 26, in the chapel at the Star of Hope Mausoleum in Graceland Cemetery.
Remembrances may be shared at https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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