John "Jack" Carl Mortick

On Wednesday, April 13, Jack C. Mortick of Silver Spring, MD, passed away after being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain cancer in November, 2021. Jack inspired his friends and family with his courage and grace throughout his illness.

Jack was born in South St. Paul, Minnesota, on April 28, 1939, the oldest of three brothers. He graduated as valedictorian from South St. Paul High School and went on to attend the University of Minnesota. He received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and completed all the coursework for his PhD but never finished his doctoral dissertation. Instead, he left the University to begin a long career as a cryptologic mathematician at the National Security Agency (NSA), retiring in 2007.

During his 41-year career at NSA, Jack became preeminent in mathematics, leadership, and recruitment. His work in mathematics is still relied on today at NSA. In addition, Jack took a leading role in recruiting and developing mathematical talent. Jack mentored many highly respected leaders of the NSA community. Shortly before his death, Jack received NSA’s highest award: induction into the Cryptologic Hall of Honor.

Jack felt privileged to have had such a wonderful career; however, his greatest pride was in his family. He and Catherine Geise were set up on a blind date on New Year’s Eve, 1966. While they only shook hands at the ball drop that year, their romance quickly blossomed, and they married the day before his birthday in 1968.

Jack and Cathy had three daughters: Annette, Jennifer, and Rachel. Jack was a loving and present father, whether demonstrated through having his girls “help” with tasks around the house, teaching them Backgammon and Cribbage, or leading them on expeditions through the woods behind the family house (while often sneaking in math skills practice).

Jack and Cathy bought a 2.5 acre property at 1713 Gamewell Rd. in Silver Spring, MD in 1974 and worked together to build their family home. Jack was the general contractor and together they laid the wood floors and installed the cabinets. This home was the setting for many gatherings of family and friends in celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and weddings. Later it became a favorite destination for grandchildren to be spoiled by their loving grandparents.

Jack loved living on Gamewell Rd. He could be found on many weekends maintaining the yard or completing house projects big and small - anything from working in his vegetable garden to building a new screened porch. He also enjoyed spending time with his wonderful neighbors.

When Jack’s responsibilities lessened as his children grew up and he retired, he enjoyed delving deeper into some of his interests. He made many beautiful creations in his workshop, enjoyed traveling to a multitude of worldwide destinations, and delved deeper into his enjoyment of playing bridge.

Jack and Cathy moved into Riderwood Senior Living Community in early 2018. While at Riderwood, Jack continued to be involved with activities he enjoyed, including gardening, woodworking, and swimming. He attended speaker sessions and volunteered on the finance committee. But certainly his most enjoyable activity was time spent with Riderwood friends.

Jack is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cathy, of Silver Spring; daughter Annette Lucas (Jay), of Raleigh, NC; daughter Jennifer Gunnulfsen (Jeff), of Silver Spring; and daughter Rachel Doyle (Will), of College Park. He is also survived by his adored grandchildren Valerie and John Lucas, Evan and Megan Gunnulfsen, and Sarah and Joey Doyle. In addition, Jack is survived by brothers Jim Mortick of Denver, CO, and Jerry Mortick of Olathe, KS. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lorraine Bessert Mortick and Jack Earl Mortick.

A private family funeral Mass was celebrated at the Riderwood Chapel on Monday, April 18. A "Celebration of Life" for Jack will be held at a later date. Donations in Jack’s memory may be sent to Pathways to Housing, DC or supporting Jack’s neurosurgeon’s glioblastoma research. Please see below for details on how to do so.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hinesrinaldifuneralhome.com for the Mortick family.