Jack H. Sinn

Jack Henry Sinn, 96, died peacefully September 26th, 2011 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital following a very short illness. Jack was born August 2nd, 1915 in Toledo, Ohio to Nadine and John (J.J.) Sinn. The family moved to Ann Arbor shortly after his birth. He was raised with his only sibling and best friend, Richard William Sinn, who preceded him in death in 1962 at the much too early age of 44. He attended Burns Park Elementary, Tappan Jr. High, Ann Arbor High and the University of Michigan where he belonged to the Sigma Nu Fraternity and received his degree in mechanical engineering in 1937. It was there, on a blind date, that he met his beloved wife of 70 years, Ginny, who preceded him in death last March at the age of 91. Jack and Ginny’s love of dance was the catalyst that drew them together, resulting in many Fox Trot Blue Ribbon Awards and eventually, their marriage. After their wedding in December of 1941, Jack began his tour of duty as an engineer in the United States Army. Besides his family, Jack was most proud of his service to his country. Like many of The Greatest Generation, Jack did not often speak of his years overseas or the five medals he was awarded while serving with the 73rd Engineering Company. This unit built the Alaskan Highway and fought in the Battle of the Bulge with General George C. Patton’s Third Army. After his return to Ann Arbor in 1946, Jack continued serving in the Army Reserves until his discharge in 1952 having achieved the rank of Major. After WWII, he and Ginny made their home in Pittsfield Village where they adopted their only child, Patricia, in 1948. They later designed and built their home of 50 years on Belmont Road where they resided until moving to Glacier Hills in 1999. Jack’s professional career started in his father’s tool and die shop, Ann Arbor Automatic, located on South Main St. Thereafter, he joined the Ford Motor Company as a research engineer specializing in the effects of wind tunnels. At 65 Jack retired from Ford and began his 31 years as a retiree, traveling with the U of M Alumni Association, playing golf at Barton Hills Country Club with friends and enjoying the family’s condominium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Jack derived much pleasure following the Michigan Football program and was a great admirer of Bo Schembechler. Jack too, considered himself a “Michigan Man”. Jack was also very fond of the Michigan Glee Club that made a surprise appearance at his 80th birthday party performing some of his favorite songs. Jack’s gentlemanly, kind nature will be greatly missed by his daughter, Patricia (Peter) Fink and his two granddaughters, Margaret and Anne. Jack is also survived by his nieces, Carol Sinn Serr, Martha Sinn Catalano and Sally Sinn Ellis and all of their families. A memorial service honoring the long and successful life of Jack Sinn will be held in the Hanson Room at Glacier Hills Senior Living Community, 1200 Earhart Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105 on Friday afternoon November 4th, 2011 at 2:00. A short reception will follow. The Rev. Ruth Anne Bourlier will officiate. Valet parking with be available in the Meadows’ parking lot entrance. Arrangements have been made by Muehlig Funeral Chapel. A private internment will take place at Washtenog Memorial Park. Jack’s family has asked that all donations be directed to Glacier Hills where Jack and Ginny lived happily for many years among old and new friends alike.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Glacier Hills for their many years of kindness and excellent care. Also, thanks to dear friends and neighbors for your support. Please visit www.muehligannarbor.com to leave you thoughts or condolences to the family.