John “Jack” McLachlan, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away Jan. 12, 2026, at the age of 93. Jack was a wonderful, kind, funny, intelligent, loyal, and deeply inspirational man, known always for his warm smile and twinkling eyes. To those who knew him best, he was a lifelong mentor, coach, and example of how to live fully and generously.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland on April 2, 1932, Jack was the eldest of three brothers. His academic gifts and relentless drive were recognized early, earning him a bursary to attend Allen Glen’s School and setting him on a path of outstanding achievement. He excelled both in the classroom and on the playing field, with a lifelong passion for football (soccer), cricket, rugby, and golf. His early years also included service in the Royal Air Force, learning discipline, leadership, and commitment.
Jack lived life at full steam ahead, guided by a powerful work ethic and a will to win—qualities balanced by humor, kindness, and joy. An accomplished ballroom dancer, a talent that changed his life forever when, at age 15, he met Connie at a youth club dance. She became his perfect partner on the dance floor and in life. They married five years later and celebrated seventy-three years of marriage just last week, a love story marked by music, dance, golf, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
Jack’s professional career began in consultancy and ultimately led him to Cummins Engine Company in Shotts, Scotland. Cummins brought the family to Columbus, Indiana, in 1971, where Jack spent the remainder of his career, retiring as Chief Accounting Officer.
Throughout his tenure, he was a trusted mentor who actively supported and advanced the careers of countless colleagues, leaving an enduring legacy of integrity and leadership.
Jack’s impact on the Columbus community, particularly through soccer, was profound. Jack was instrumental in bringing youth soccer to the area and was a founding member of the Columbus Express Soccer Club. He coached at the high school and collegiate levels, including Bulldogs, Olympians, and Franklin College, where part of the field was named in his honor. He delighted in taking young players overseas to broaden their experience and perspective. Ever the ultimate rule follower, Jack also established a referee clinic to uphold fairness and high standards of play. In recognition of his contributions, Columbus honored him with the Jack Cramer Award in 1982. In 2007, he was inducted into the Indiana Soccer Hall of Fame.
Golf was another lifelong love. Jack played enthusiastically at Harrison Lake with the men’s division and cherished Friday Nine-and-Dine evenings with Connie. He patiently coached his children and grandchildren on grip, stance, and swing, played in Pro-Am tournaments, and often returned to Scotland to golf with friends and family. Always eager to give back, Jack volunteered with the Indiana Golf Association, rating courses throughout the state and recruiting friends to join him, turning service into shared enjoyment.
A resident of Grandview Lake, he enjoyed sailing, water skiing and swimming. All the grandchildren were amazed at Papa Jack’s skiing abilities and loved their summer visits. His generous spirit reached beyond family when sharing the lake house. He hosted business visitors, soccer teams and friends, coaching and encouraging them to ski or sail. Jack touched so many lives. Absent physically, Jack’s love and spirit continue to surround all who love him.
Jack’s family is grateful for the care he received in recent years and, in particular, Dr. Charles Judy, ACG Hospice, Commonwealth Senior Living in Christiansburg, and his daily caregivers.
Jack’s ashes will be returned to Scotland to rest with family, including his son, John Derek, who preceded Jack in death; a fitting homecoming for a man whose life bridged countries, generations, and communities, and whose influence will continue to be felt wherever people play, dance, mentor, and love with purpose.
Jack leaves behind his wife, Connie (Christiansburg); brothers, Alexander and Kenneth (Glasgow, Scotland); son Neil and daughter-in-law Sally (Hillsboro Beach, Fla.); daughter Ruth and son-in-law Robert (Radford); grandchildren Sara (Brandon), Andrew (Kelsey), Iain (Jessica), Derek (Alexandra) and Alexander (Tamiraa); and 10 great-grandchildren. His legacy of living fully while lifting others will continue through them.
The McLachlan family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
