Jeff Rackovan

Sept. 16, 1962 – Nov. 15, 2025

When The Salvation Army of Jefferson County reopened it's food pantry on Nov. 16, 2025, after a devasatating fire the year prior, our beloved mascot, Captain Kettle, posed for photos. But for the first time in several years, Board Member Jeff Rackovan was not the one wearing the costume. He had passed away the night before after an illness and subsequent hospitalization.

Jeff was an increasingly important part of The Salvation Army’s operations in Jefferson County. When Jeff first showed up in his capacity as the local Lions Club President to see if they might be able to meet in our space, he mentioned various ways in which the club could be supportive of The Salvation Army. 

But it didn’t end there. Jeff started showing up during the week and asking how he could help. Christmas was approaching and he asked about ringing bells at one of our red kettles - something he ended up doing regularly and successfully. When he heard we were looking for someone to wear the Captain Kettle Costume in a parade, he offered to do it without hesitation. “I’ve worn the Lions Club Lion Mascot so I’m experienced,” he said. It was the first of many times he donned the costume and made children and adults smile with a friendly wave and animated activity. 

The next year, he wore it at the Arnold City in the Park event. And after the Christmas season ended and we visited and thanked our supporting local businesses in Jefferson County it was Jeff who donned the costume again. He even wore it at the Lions District Convention, where he also arranged for a booth for The Salvation Army, to encourage district clubs to bellring in their communities. 

Eventually, Jeff joined The Salvation Army of Jefferson County's Advisory Board and agreed to start a Community Relations Committee. From that Committee stemmed the idea for the 2025 food pantry reopening event - appropriately titled as the “Day of the Phoenix."

As avid as Jeff’s support was for The Salvation Army, his love, involvement, and support for Lions Clubs was even more impressive. He was, at the time of his passing, in line to be a future District Governor of Lions. 

His energy, enthusiasm, positive outlook, leadership, and wisdom will be missed by many. He has been a valued part of The Salvation Army family for years and we are forever grateful to have worked alongside him.