Linker, Jack (1932-2018) | University of Illinois Archives

Jack E. Linker (1932-2018) was born in Anna, Ohio on January 31, 1932 a son of the late Eugene and Lorma Linker. He had two brothers, Eugene and Larry Linker. He first developed an interest in John Philip Sousa while playing clarinet in his high school band. Briefly educated at Miami University, he left college to join the Navy as a radioman and fight during the Korean War. During his service he learned the harmonica, kept a small phonograph for his private use in the radio room, and spent his shore leave attending concerts in New York City.

After leaving the Navy in 1955, Linker began collecting sound recordings and associated materials, including early cylinder sound recordings, records, and piano rolls. He married Linda Linker, with whom he had a son, Douglas. Linker passed away on January 21, 2018 near Crown Hill, Ohio.