John Walter Minnich, Jr., 85,  of Lancaster died on November 12, 2006 at Lancaster General Hospital.

Born in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 1921, Jack earned a degree in biochemistry from Penn State University, where he was also a member of the lacrosse and swim teams.

During World War II, Jack worked for Hercules, Inc. on the production of smokeless powder in support of the war effort.  His career in chemistry and chemical engineering also included work at General Foods and 30 years at DuPont, where he held several patents in pigment chemistry.

A devoted family man who loved Big Band music and diving in the British Virgin Islands, Jack is survived by his wife of 64 years, the former Imelda Ann Smith; two sons, Andrew and John, III; a daughter, Ann Minnich Abbott; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in  death by his brother Robert.

A Memorial Service will be held at Willow Valley North Auditorium, Willow Valley Manor North, Lancaster, PA on Friday at 11:30AM. Friends may pay their respects to the family from 11:00-11:30AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Canine Partners for Life, P.O. Box 170, Cochranville, PA 19330.