John Hughes Young

John Hughes Young, 100, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 9, 2025. He was survived by his beloved wife of 75 years, Katherine Doris Young, who subsequently passed away less than 48 hours later. He is also survived by his three children, John (Marcia), Gary (Kathy), and Kathy (Greg); seven grandchildren, Justin Young, Lauren Young, Julie Young Meirowitz, Amy Young Bartholomew, Ryan John, Michael John, and Kristen John; seven great grandchildren, Lila Meirowitz, Jack Meirowitz, Samuel Meirowitz, Owen Bartholomew, Harrison Bartholomew, Miles John and Fiona John. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Christopher John, his brother, Edwin Willis Young, and his sister, Gail Sabo.

John, known as “Jack,” was born on October 26, 1924, in Easton, PA. Jack was the son of Edwin Willis and Marie Young. His formative years were spent in Easton, and he graduated from Easton High School in 1942. Immediately following graduation Jack began his studies at Lafayette College before being drafted to serve in the Army during World War II where he served as part of the “A” Battery, 787th Field Artillery Battalion. His European Theater duty took him to France and Germany where he was a Forward Observer for the US Army Artillery Firing Batteries.

After being honorably discharged from the Army in 1946, Jack returned to Lafayette College and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and later a master’s degree in chemistry from Lehigh University. During this time, Jack was married to the love of his life, Katherine Doris Young in 1949.

In 1951, Jack and Katherine moved to Lancaster, PA so Jack could begin his career as a research chemist at what was then Armstrong Cork Company. He was later promoted to manager of tile research. Jack had a long and impressive career at Armstrong for over 35 years, retiring in 1989. During that time Jack was awarded five patents involving innovations in the manufacturing of vinyl floor tile. Jack’s successful career highlights two of his greatest qualities – his passion for learning and his deep commitment to hard work.

While Jack had a lifetime of remarkable educational and professional accomplishments, the things most important to him were always his family and his faith. As he often reminded his grandchildren, “we’re not lucky, we’re blessed.” Jack and Katherine were members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and he lived his life with deep gratitude for the gifts he had been given, and determination to pay it forward to everyone he met. Jack was a bright light in any room he entered – full of curiosity, enthusiasm, humor, and energy.

Jack and Katherine had many happy years of retirement together at Willow Valley Retirement Community. Their life was full – they were present for birthday parties, cookouts, and graduations. They traveled extensively and enjoyed their annual snowbird trips to Siesta Key, Florida. Jack was committed to learning and using new technology – FaceTiming with grandchildren and great grandchildren, counting his daily steps on his Apple Watch, and using the internet to research new topics, email friends and family, and create virtual birthday cards. Their mornings consisted of going out to breakfast, often with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren for “Breakfast Club,” shopping, catching up with friends, and ending the night watching classic movies together.

In his final days with Katherine, Jack reflected on his rich, beautiful, blessed life. He was surrounded by family and spoke often of his faith. May he find eternal rest and joy with the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601. Internment and a private service for family will be held at a later date.