Whether he was making soul food or relaxing to the mellow sounds of jazz or classic oldies, Jerome "Mack" McKinstry's interest were diverse. Vicky McKinstry said her husband's real passion was repairing computers.

"My husband was amazing. He was mostly self-taught, but determined enough to pursue his education. He received an associate's degree from Vincennes University in computer technology," Vick McKinstry said.

She said her husband also received Microsoft certifications that enable him to open a business, AnIndyNet Inc.

Vicky McKinstry said her husband made many strides and his advanced technical achievements were listed in Who's Who of (Microsoft) MS Certification.

She said launching a career as a computer whiz was a far cry from her husband's previous vocation, which was working (with the rank of major) for the Indiana Department of Corrections in Plainfield, IN. There, Mack McKinstry supervised inmates in the maximum and minimum security penal institution and conducted numerous seminars throughout the state on the impact of gangs on the corrections system.

Mack McKinstry, 53, of Indianapolis, died of kidney failure. He was a native of Gary and a 1969 graduate of Roosevelt High School. He was an Army veteran who rose to the rank of senior personnel sergeant.

Wynetta McKinstry admits she was a "daddy's girl" who always looked up to her father."My dad was someone to admire. He was principled in his beliefs and convictions," she said. "He had so many talents, including the fact that he was a gifted musician in his own right, who mastered playing trumpet when he was in high school."

When he wasn't listening to the music of Ramsey Lewis or George Benson, Mack McKinstry relished being with his family. His daughter said he also like Star Trek. "He was a tried and true Trekkie," his daughter said.

Services took place Jan. 29th in Indianapolis at the Flanner & Buchanan Washington Park East Funeral Center.


Jerome 'MACK' McKinstry, age 53 of Indianapolis, died January 25, 2005. Jerome was born November 21, 1951 in Gary Indiana, He was owner of An Indy Net computer company, previously he was employed by BMG, and before that he was a former Major for the Indiana Department of Correction. He was a U.S. Army Veteran. 'Mack' received an Associates Degree in Computer Technology, he also received several high level Microsoft Certifications, such as Technical, Programming, Brain Storming A+, and many more. He also was listed in Who's Who in MS Certification. He is survived by loving wife, Vanetta 'Vicky' (Heard) McKinstry, Children; Camellia A.Y., Jerome II, and Wynetta M. McKinstry, brothers, Gregory McKinstry, and William Wayne Curtis. Two grandchildren. Memorial service will be held Saturday, (1-29-05) at 1:00 p.m. in Flanner & Buchanan Washington Park East Funeral Center, where friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday. www.flannerbuchanan.com