Theodore "Ted" Jednak, 99, ran his final race on July 16, 2025, passing peacefully at home in Fort Myers, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 9, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Burns and Eleanor (Wajda) Jednak, Ted packed nearly a century of service, faith, and family into one incredible life.

A proud veteran and Eagle Scout, Ted served honorably in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. As a beloved U.S. History teacher at Valhalla High School in New York for more than 30 years, Ted didn't just teach facts, he inspired curiosity, sparked laughter, and mentored generations of students with wisdom and the occasional well-placed joke.

In 1986, Ted retired, though anyone who knew him would agree that he never really slowed down. He split his time between Florida and New Hampshire, hiking, running, and charming everyone on trails with his signature 'Jednak salute' and comical one-liners. He wasn't just active for his age—he was active for any age. In his 80s, he proudly completed all 48 of New Hampshire's 4,000-foot peaks and ran countless 5Ks and half-marathons, many of them alongside his grandchildren (who tried to keep up).

Ted is survived by his children: Mary (preceded in death by her husband, Mark) of Webster, NY; Joseph of Yorktown Heights, NY; James (Ann) of Venice, FL; John (Ania) of Newburyport, MA; Mike (Colleen) of Granby, CT; and Dorothy 'Duffy' of Fort Myers, FL; and his sister, Janice (Omaha, NE). He was also the proud Grandpa to 23 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren (and counting). As a World War II veteran, Ted took immense pride in his seven grandchildren who followed in his footsteps by serving their country with honor in the Army, Marines, and U.S. Coast Guard.

He was welcomed into eternity by his beloved wives, Clare McLean and Mary Brown, both of whom no doubt greeted him with open arms and probably a bit of good-natured humor.

A funeral Mass and celebration of life will be held on October 25, 2025, at St. John XXIII Catholic Church in Fort Myers. In honor of Ted's passion for the outdoors, donations may be made to the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) or your local nature conservancy.

Ted ran the good race. He lived a life full of faithful purpose and love for his family. He will be missed and remembered with smiles and stories for many years to come.