Jan Scott Hale

Jan Scott Hale, age 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 1, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was born on January 10, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Clyde Robert and Margaret (Hermann) Hale.

Jan’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and adventure. He graduated from South High School in Columbus, Ohio in 1955. Jan pursued his education at General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1960. While earning his degree and raising his family, he proudly served his country in the United States Naval Air Reserves as an Electronic Technician and Radio Operator from 1954 to 1962. He began his engineering career with General Motors in Detroit Michigan as a Senior Tool Engineer, moving on to a managerial role at AlliedSignal in Macon, Georgia. Jan’s career continued in Detroit and in 1984, he relocated to Knoxville, Tennessee, where he finished his career and retired as a General Manager at Alignment Engineering.

Outside of his professional life, Jan had many passions. He was actively involved in the Boy Scouts as a leader. He also loved the great outdoors, finding joy in activities with friends and family including camping, boating, traveling and entertaining. Jan had a green thumb and loved spending time in his yard, gardening and is remembered for his love of irises. He also loved his Ohio State Football team and could often be seen sporting his favorite OSU gear. He is well known for his “Jan-tini's" and his basement bar. His larger-than-life personality, warmth, and sense of humor will be fondly remembered and missed.

Jan was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Clyde L. and Alice Agnes Hale, who raised him with love and care; his maternal grandparents, Albert Hermann and Reva Mathes; his parents, Clyde Robert and Margaret (Hermann) Hale; his aunt, Esther (Robert) Oster; his brothers, George Goodfleisch, and Clyde M. Hale.

He is survived by his loving children, Jeff Scott Hale, Julie (Giri) Iyer, and Jana (Phil) Arlinghaus; grandchildren, Clay Hale, Lillie Hale, Grace Iyer, Janek Iyer, Nick Arlinghaus and Rachel (P.J.) Ginty, several nieces and nephews, and good family friends.

A service will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 2:30pm at Forest Lawn Memorial Garden’s Chapel, 5600 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43213.