Jack H. Pearl

HUMPHREY — Jack H. Pearl, 71, of Route 98, Humphrey, passed away peacefully at home Saturday morning, Sept. 20, 2025.

Born April 16, 1954, in Springville, he was the son of the late Cecil and Dorothy Dunkleman Pearl. He was married April 9, 1977, in Salamanca, to the former Margo Swihart, who survives.

Jack attended Ellicottville High School.

He lived a life defined by independence, hard work and the quiet pride of doing things his own way. In his earlier years, he worked as a logger before becoming an owner-operator, spending more than four decades on the road as a long-haul truck driver. Behind the wheel of his tractor-trailer, he logged countless miles across the country until his retirement in 2023.

Closer to home, Jack built his own house, creating a place where his family could gather and grow. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. His fudge, chocolate chip cookies and especially his peanut butter frosting became family traditions and favorites that will be deeply missed.

Jack’s legacy is one of grit, strength and devotion. He lived as he wished, never needing approval from anyone, and leaves behind memories of a man who was true to himself from beginning to end.

In addition to his wife of 48 years, he is survived by two sons, Jason (Alicia) Pearl of Great Valley and Joshua (Kristen) Pearl of Ellicottville; a daughter, Melissa (Benjamen Roblee) Pearl of West Valley; a sister, Cindy Pearl of Salamanca; two brothers, Butch (Ruth) Pearl of Ellicottville and Robert (Sheila Decker) Pearl of Salamanca; grandchildren, Cole, Star, Jayce, Jackson, Justin, Lilly, Jack and Ainsleigh; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, Johnathon C. Pearl; two sisters, Judy Manning and Connie Perkins; and two brothers, David Pearl and Calvin Pearl.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday (Oct. 3, 2025) at the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River St., Salamanca. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday (Oct. 4, 2025) in the funeral home with Peter Stokes officiating. Burial will be in Green Cemetery, Great Valley.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.