Jack Limpert, the influential editor who shaped Washingtonian magazine for four decades, passed away on September 19, 2024, at his home in Bethesda, Maryland. He was 90 years old. Limpert's daughter, Ann Limpert, an editor and restaurant critic at the magazine, confirmed that the cause was metastatic cancer.
Limpert's tenure at Washingtonian, which began in 1969, coincided with the rise of city and regional magazines across the United States. Under his leadership, the publication evolved from a niche periodical to a widely-read monthly with a circulation that reached 170,000 by 1990.
The magazine's success was built on Limpert's editorial formula, which combined in-depth reporting with service journalism. Washingtonian became known for its feature articles on local politics and culture, as well as its popular lists of the best doctors, lawyers, and restaurants in the area.
"Jack was always looking for ways to help people get the most out of Washington."
Limpert's approach to journalism was both democratic and diverse. He published 30,000-word features on urban development alongside practical guides for everyday living. This mix of content appealed to a broad readership and helped establish Washingtonian as an essential resource for both longtime residents and newcomers to the nation's capital.
During Limpert's tenure, Washingtonian won five National Magazine Awards, a testament to its journalistic excellence. Notable stories included a 1981 feature on the medical team that treated President Ronald Reagan after an assassination attempt, and a 1989 article on cardiac surgery pioneer Vivien Thomas, which was later adapted into an Emmy-winning HBO film.
John Arthur Limpert was born on March 15, 1934, in Appleton, Wisconsin. His journey to becoming a renowned editor was unconventional, including a stint in the Air Force and a brief enrollment at Stanford Law School. Limpert's entry into journalism came through a chance encounter with UPI executives, leading to his first reporting job in 1960.
Limpert's leadership at Washingtonian was not without challenges. The magazine faced criticism for its perceived focus on affluent readers and was involved in several high-profile lawsuits over its reporting. However, Limpert's commitment to journalistic integrity and his ability to adapt to changing times ensured the magazine's continued relevance and success.
Throughout his career, Limpert mentored numerous journalists and editors, many of whom went on to successful careers in national publications. His impact on city magazine journalism extended far beyond Washington, D.C., influencing publications across the country.
Limpert stepped down as editor in 2009 but continued to serve as an adviser and editor-at-large until 2012. His legacy at Washingtonian includes not only the magazine's success but also the careers he nurtured and the journalistic standards he upheld.
Jack Limpert is survived by his wife, Jean Vincent, whom he married in 1975, and their two daughters, Ann and Jeannie. His son from a previous marriage, John Limpert, passed away in 2009.
Limpert's career serves as a testament to the enduring value of local journalism and the power of combining serious reporting with practical, reader-focused content. His vision for Washingtonian helped shape the landscape of city magazines and left an indelible mark on American journalism.