YCON Story: Jack Etzler

Some people support a cause. Others live it, day in and day out. Jack Etzler was the kind of person who lived it.

A lifelong Washington County resident, Jack didn’t wait to see what the YMCA would become. When the idea of bringing a Y to the community was first introduced more than 30 years ago, he was all in. He believed in what it could mean for families, for health, and for connection.

His son Scott shared his memories about Jack from the early days.

“As a lifelong resident and avid runner and swimmer, when the idea of a Y was floated 30+ years ago he was more than happy to support the project. He became an annual donor, advocate and virtually daily user.”

Jack didn’t just believe in the Y. He showed up for it. Every single day.

“For years he was always the first or one of the first at the door, rain or shine or snow.”

That consistency became part of the fabric of the Y. Early mornings, familiar faces, a quiet rhythm that helped shape the culture so many members still experience today. And in true Jack fashion, he kept things light even in his commitment.

“He loved the fact that someone always opened, though a couple times the 5 a.m. opening was a few minutes late, which he reminded them more than once.”

Prior to his passing at the age of 97 in April 2021, Jack remained a daily visitor to the Washington County Family YMCA workout room. His dedication to movement, routine, and community never wavered.

But beneath that routine was something deeper. Jack understood what the Y was really about.

Over the years, he watched it grow from an idea into a place filled with life. More programs, more people, more opportunities for connection and health. And he saw firsthand how it changed lives, including his own.

“For him personally, the Y had been a key to his mental and physical well being. He was so very thankful.”

That’s what made Jack’s story so powerful. He didn’t just witness the impact. He lived it. He experienced the way the Y brings people together, strengthens families, and supports well being across every stage of life.

“So many activities had been added which allowed attendees of all ages to have an opportunity to improve their lives through exercise and group activities.”

When asked what he would say to others, Jack kept it simple and true to who he was.

“He would have said do it now. Good for your body, good for your soul.”

And maybe that’s the clearest answer to why there’s no place like this place.

“He believed it was great family bonding, all about better health and fellowship.”

Jack Etzler didn’t just help build the Y in its earliest days. He helped define what it feels like to belong there. His steady presence, his belief in the mission, and his daily commitment are still felt every time those doors open.

And because of the impact the Y had on Jack’s life, his legacy continues to give back.

In 2018, Scott Etzler established the Jack and Jane Etzler Society Endowment Fund to honor his parents. This fund provides annual support to the Washington County Family YMCA, helping maintain and replace the exercise equipment so others can experience the same physical and mental well being that meant so much to Jack.

Because of Jack, and because of this enduring gift, future generations will continue to walk through those doors, build healthy habits, and find connection.

Because of people like Jack, this place is more than a building.

It’s a community that lasts.