Jack Weil facts for kids

Jack Arnold Weil (born March 28, 1901 – died August 13, 2008) was a very important person in Western fashion. He founded and led a company called Rockmount Ranch Wear in Denver. Many believed he was the oldest working CEO in the United States.

Who Was Jack Weil?

Jack Weil was born in Evansville, Indiana, in 1901. People often called him Papa or "Papa Jack." In 1926, he married Beatrice Baum. Two years later, they moved to Denver, Colorado, with their new son, Jack B. Later, their daughter, Jane, was born.

Starting Rockmount Ranch Wear

In 1946, Jack Weil started his company, Rockmount Ranch Wear. He wanted to create stylish and useful clothes for Western ranchers. His goal was to give Western wear its own special look.

Rockmount's clothing became very famous. It was even featured in the movie Brokeback Mountain in 2005. This movie won an Academy Award.

Jack Weil's family was also a big part of his company. He had five grandchildren: Greg, Gail, Janet, Steven, and Judy. All of them worked for Rockmount at some point. Today, his grandson, Steven Weil, leads the company. Jack also had ten great-grandchildren.

Fashion Innovations

Jack Weil was known for many new ideas in Western fashion. He often said, "The West is not a place, it is a state of mind." This phrase became very popular.

He was the first to use snaps on Western shirts. This made shirts easier to take on and off. He also created the unique saw-tooth pocket design seen on many Western shirts. Jack Weil is also given credit for inventing the bolo tie. This is a type of necktie often worn in the American West.

A Long and Full Life

Jack Weil lived a very long life. His wife, Beatrice, passed away in 1990. His son, Jack B., died in 2008.

Jack Weil passed away at home on August 13, 2008. He was surrounded by his loving family. He lived to be 107 years old.