John F. Rice “Jack” Rice of Lansdale passed away on April 14, 2020, after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer.
Jack was born in Philadelphia, PA, on September 13, 1942, to the late William and Ann (nee Herens) Rice. He enlisted in the US Navy in the early 1960s, serving on the USS Midway, then transitioned to the US Air Force, where he served during and after the Vietnam War.
Jack married his beloved wife, Maryann (nee Melhuish), on April 18th, 1970, and they were rarely seen apart.
After retiring from the military with the rank of Master Sergeant, Jack served as a volunteer firefighter and worked for Lockheed Martin for a number of years. He was the loving father of Bridget Bobbitt, John (Dana) Rice, and Christa (Phillip) Williams. He was the caring Popie of Aaron, Christian, Sarah, Allie, Ruby, and Casey. He is also survived by sister Terri (Joe) Maloney and brother Mike (Jane) Rice. Besides his parents, Jack was predeceased by his brothers Bill and Fran, and his sister Nancy.
When he wasn’t entertaining his grandchildren with his many stories, he spent his time staying up to date on the news and watching his cherished Philly sports teams. Even as his health faltered, Jack remained active, traveling internationally with his family every summer. His large circle of family and friends will miss him dearly.
Jack was a member of St. Stanislaus Roman Catholic Church in Lansdale at the time of his passing.
Due to the current pandemic, the date of Jack’s service will be postponed until it is deemed safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Air Force Aid Society would be greatly appreciated.
Jack was a member of my coin master group, much loved, and will be missed by many .Fly High Jack! We miss you! Nita Warren
Jack – for the many, many journeys you have experienced- what an amazing man, husband, father, grandfather and so much more to others – the light that you reflected is now shining down on us – all those acts of love are scattered all over for us to cherish.
My love to Mary Ann and the beautiful family that has been your entire life❤️🙏
Jack: Your passing has left a hole in all of our hearts, but I am comforted in the knowledge that your earthly suffering is over and you are reunited with Mother, Dad, Bill, Fran and Nancy. You are all in God’s loving embrace and surrounded by the peace of Christ. Until we meet again, may you rest in peace, little brother. I love you now and for always. Terri
You will always be in our hearts. A true inspiration to many of us in the game world. Always full of lire right up to the end. Will miss our chats and your words of wisdom. You will never be forgotten
Til we meet in the after life.
My heartfelt prayers are to those he left behind. He loved you all very much. Hugging you all in my heart🌺💗
Growing up he was one of my role models and I will continue looking up to you, Uncle Jack
Rest In Peace great uncle Jack. You were a kind giving and clearly cherished member of the family! Amazing life lived for sure in kindness and peace. 🙏🏻❤️—
Carol “Missy” Kindermann