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John D. "Jack" Hontz

1960 - 2017

John D. "Jack" Hontz obituary, 1960-2017, West Chester, PA

BORN

1960

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc.

410 North Church Street

West Chester, Pennsylvania

John Hontz Obituary

John D. “Jack” Hontz of West Chester, music educator, church member and community servant, died suddenly on Friday, June 23, 2017. He was 57 years old. Through his music, education, church, sports and community service, Jack was given the rare opportunity to touch thousands of young lives. Jack was a zealous music educator. A 1978 graduate of Newton High School in Newton, New Jersey, Jack earned his B.A. (Music Education) and M.A. (Music Performance) from West Chester University. For the past 34 years, Jack grew the Strath Haven High School bands and orchestra, touching the lives of generations of students. Jack was active in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, serving as District 12 President. Jack was a 15 year volunteer to the Great Valley Little League, as assistant coach, coach and as President. His coaching of the 2014 All-Star Senior League Team, which included his youngest son, to the Pennsylvania State Championship, was a cherished memory. Jack was a life-long, active and faithful servant of the United Methodist Church Jack was an active community servant and volunteer. He was a member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Media. Jack was devoted to his family. He worked energetically with his beloved wife of 28 years, Cindy, in raising four children: Jack (25), David (22), Matthew (19) and Emily (16). He is also survived by his parents, Jack and Elizabeth Hontz, two brothers: David Hontz and his wife Donna; and Mark Hontz and his wife, Stephanie all of Newton NJ and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation at the Strath Haven High School’s George H. Slick Auditorium, 205 S Providence Rd, Wallingford, PA, on Friday, June 30, 2017 from 1p.m. through 6 p.m. A memorial service will be held at the Grove United Methodist Church, 490 Boot Road, West Chester on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the Hontz Family asks that friends consider making a contribution to the Hontz Family Education Fund C/O Bryn Mawr Trust 849 Paoli Pike West Chester PA 19380. Arrangements by DellaVechia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. West Chester 610-696-1181 www.DellaFH.com

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Published by The Daily Times from Jun. 26 to Jun. 27, 2017.

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Cheryl Weilet

December 13, 2019

MY NAME IS CHERYL ANNE(GOODIN)WEILER.I KNEW YOUNG JOHN "JACK" HONTZ THRU HIS BROTHERS DAVID AND MARK PLUSI HAD THE HONOR 2 BE TAUGHT BY MR.JACK HONTZ @ NHS AND KNOW HIS WIFE "SCOTTY"HONTZ AS WELL.THEY R AN AMAZING FAMILY..I AM THANKFUL 4 ALL THAT I LEARNED FROM MR.HONTZ..SO 2 HEAR ABT THE LOSS OF YOUNG. JACK..I KNOW I JUST FOUND OUT AND I KNOW THAT THE LORD IS WATCHIN OVER THE FAMILY ,FRIENDS,COLLEAGUES 2 GET THEM THRU..TY 4 LETTING ME POST..GOD BLESS!

Barbara Waeckel

June 23, 2018

Wishing for the Hontz Family many blessings on this anniversary day of when our Lord opened the heaven gates for Mr.Hontz. He will always be remembered as a special man who devoted his life to his family and his music family. I'm sure he is leading the choir of Angels in heaven. Many blessings today to the family.

Carole Deering

June 23, 2018

Remembering that face, filled with enthusiasm and joy, directing the SHHS band at all the football games!

Barbara Fretchel

February 12, 2018

I just learned of Jack's passing. He is someone I remember fondly from my days at WSSD, not only as a good person, but as the man who kept those of us in the administration building in touch with the students. Friday afternoons were something I looked forward to. Following band practice on the football field, Jack would have the students line up along the driveway outside the administration building and give us with a little concert. Students took turns conducting and the color guard presented their routines while the band played. Everyone would come to the windows, open them up, and smile with joy as we watched and listened. He was a delightful man who touched the lives of many. God bless you, Jack.

Steven A

November 2, 2017

I was just recently made aware of Jack's passing. I believe myself and our rambunctious cohorts were part of his original drum corps at N.P. Before merging to become Strathhaven. He and Pearlman had their hands full with us. I remember him fondly for his patience, dedication, and the vision that he pursued for the many years after us. It is amazing to consider how young a man he was when he took on this challenge. Although he was not much older than us at the time, we always considered him our fearless leader. It is rare for a human being this young to have touched so many lives. God bless his family and friends. We are all blessed by having had the opportunity to know him and share in his passion.

Arlette & Jack Wright

July 9, 2017

Jack and I extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. We are so very sorry to learn of his passing. Thinking of you and the family.

condolances from my heart

Ellen Leach

July 5, 2017

my sincere condolences go out to the entire Hontz family

Mary Kaiser

July 5, 2017

Cindy,
I am so very sorry for your loss. My warm thoughts and prayers are with you.

MARCEL T

July 5, 2017

Sincere condolences to all in the family. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure in your heart and it lives forever. May the wonderful treasures fill your heart with love and bring you peace. LUKE 12:34

Kathy Wydner Kawalec

July 3, 2017

As one of Jack's classmates from Newton High School, Class of 1978, I am deeply saddened to hear this news. My heart goes out to Jack's family, friends, and students. Jack has left a wonderful legacy that will continue to make a positive impact for a long time. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss.

Sean Hickey

July 3, 2017

Heartbroken to hear the news of the sudden passing of Jack Hontz. A wonderful teacher, musician, & family man, but above all, an amazingly kind person that we had the privilege to know! He will be sorely missed... Our thoughts & prayers are with his family as well as everyone in the Strath Haven community as we mourn the loss of this terrific human being! -Sean & Janis

July 1, 2017

I knew Jack from both Media Rotary and as the Strath Haven High School marching band director in which both of my children played. It was a pleasure to work with him at Rotary and most enjoyable watching his kids march and play (my children told me he was a stern taskmaster, but a good guy too). I'll miss his smile, his booming voice, and his love of music and education. My sympathies to his family and to all the students who have fond remembrances of Jack.

-- George Albany

Judy Voois

July 1, 2017

The value of a candle is not ultimately measured by how long it burns, but by how many people are guided by its light. The light from Jack Hontz's candle burns brightly in his students, in all who experienced his leadership and music-making and, most especially, in his wonderful children.

Denise Basquill

June 30, 2017

I had the honor and privilege to work with Jack for 13 years at WSSD. He truly was a great human being, always caring and thoughtful. My condolences to his wife and children and to his WSSD family.

May God great you the peace and strength to get through this difficult time.

Fondly,
Denise Basquill

June 30, 2017

I met Jack when I came to WCU. Whenever I saw him he was sporting that smile.

My condolences to the entire family. May the support you receive the next few days and months get you through the tough times.
Claire Pettigrew

Rob King

June 30, 2017

My condolence to the family. He was one of the most supportive parents when I coached Jack and David on the East High School baseball team. I never saw him without a big smile on his face. He and his family will be in my family's prayers.

Debbie Mischo

June 30, 2017

My prayers and loving thoughts to the Hontz family. Jack, you were more than a colleague, you were a friend. I loved to cover your class just to see all the pictures of your family and how the kids have grown. You never would take credit for success but always directed to the band. You defined the role o educator. I will miss our discussions on gardening and your annual email that the corn was in at Pete's. RIP my dear friend and know YOU made a difference.

Terry Klinefelter

June 30, 2017

Condolences to the Hontz family...what a terrible loss! Jack and I were students at WCU at the same time, and I have had the pleasure of teaching his sons who have followed in his footsteps at WCU as not only stellar musicians and educators, but young men of fine character. Jack was really what it's all about! He left an incredible legacy and will be missed by all.

Carolyn Budd Sheeler

June 29, 2017

Sincere condolences to all in the Hontz family. I did not realize what an awesome legacy Jack built since graduating NHS. After reading about his fervor for music and gift of leadership, I think Jack probably already has started a band on the other side. ❤♩

AR

June 29, 2017

So sorry for your loss. May the the God of comfort help you through this difficult time.

Scott Bennett

June 29, 2017

Hontz Family-

Gone is Jack's imposing presence, booming voice and devilish grin but what lives on is the indelible mark he made on the young lives he touched through his contribution as a passionate music teacher and revered little league coach.

His teachings of hard work, shared sacrifice and optimism will travel on through many of us. His was a rich life, overflowing with a beautiful family, soothing music and lots of smiles.

I am thankful for his teachings not only to my son but many of our sons about baseball and life. Thanks Jack for so freely sharing your gifts with others...and to his family for sharing your Jack time with all of us.

scott bennett

June 29, 2017

Hontz Family-

Gone is Jack's imposing presence, booming voice and devilish grin but what lives on is the indelible mark he made on the young lives he touched through his contribution as a passionate music teacher and revered little league coach.

His teachings of hard work, shared sacrifice and optimism will travel on through many of us. His was a rich life, overflowing with a beautiful family, soothing music and lots of smiles.

I am thankful for his teachings not only to my son but many of our sons about baseball and life. Thanks Jack for so freely sharing your gifts with others...and to his family for sharing your Jack time with all of us.

chris wilson

June 28, 2017

May the lord bless his soul into the departed, and god bless the entire hontz family during this time

Patricia Sharpe

June 28, 2017

Condolences and prayers for strength to the Hontz family for now and in the coming days. God bless each of you. May Mr. Hontz rest in peace.

Amy Watters

June 28, 2017

So sorry for your loss, we are sending our prayers.

John Iannotti

June 28, 2017

My deepest sympathy to Mr Hontz's family and to all Strath Haven families who suffer the loss as well. I am an outsider but still a recipient of his work. Two of my grandchildren have directly benefited from his exceptional work. As a three term School Board member and leadership teacher, I can say with certainty that we have seen in Mr Hontz the rare kind of leadership where respect and following is peaked and sustained for many years. I would have used his example if I were still teaching the art of Executive Leadership. I am personally saddened by his passing and selfishly hurt knowing my third grandchild in Strath Haven will miss his tutelage.
John Iannotti

Dave and Kathi Hegner

June 28, 2017

My deepest sympathy to the Hontz family.

Leigh Miller

June 27, 2017

Being a member of the elite Strath Haven Band AND Bandfront under Mr.Hontz to say the least was an honor and privilege. He was one of many of the teachers at strath haven who helped me decide to become a teacher. I hope I can help half the students the way Mr.Hontz helped me. May you rest in peace Mr.Hontz. Fall Friday night football games will never be the same.

Rose Zuppo

June 27, 2017

John Hontz was a very loving passionate music teacher. He knew everyone's circumstances and needs. He allow all my family into band camp giving us full scholarships.

Kind, understanding and thoughful as he wasJack gave my family a love of music. Most certainly build their confidence and enriched our lives forever.

Sadly missed. Peace and Prayer to Cindy, children, family and WSSD.

Judy Brown

June 27, 2017

My deepest condolences to the Family at this very difficult time. May the comfort of our Loving Creator be with the family. Isa.41:10,13.

Colleen Gardenier Wolkey

June 27, 2017

Dear Hontz family, Strath Haven Band members and all those whose lives Mr Hontz touched in so many ways, He was truly a wonderful, caring teacher, mentor and friend. I am truly blessed to have been in the music program and know that heaven has gained an angel. He cared so much for us and he leaves such a legacy at Haven. Thank you for sharing your dad and beloved husband with us. We are so much better for having him in our lives and he will always be in our hearts. Love and Peace Mr Hontz.

Pat

June 27, 2017

I'm so sorry for your loss. May your memories bring you comfort as you pour out your heart in prayer for strength.

Riley Tate

June 27, 2017

It is hard to imagine a Friday night at Haven in the fall without Jack there. And yet, he will be there. We are all so grateful for having our lives enriched by Jack's enormous commitment and generous gift of music for the whole Haven community. He is irreplaceable, and will be greatly missed. Our hearts go to the Hontz family and we wish you peace during this difficult time. Our daughters Emma and Hannah were both part of the Haven band and bandfront for four years, and they were precious years that taught them so much about teamwork, leadership, and expression. We are grateful that they were able to experience the special gift that Jack brought. As Paul McCartney wrote, "And in the end the love you take, is equal to the love you make." Be assured that Jack has taken an enormous amount of love with him. The Tate family

Shannon, Matt, Justin, Zoe and my 5 little ones you haven't met Haas

June 27, 2017

Prayers to the Hontz family. You all have an angel watching over you.

Brandon Xu

June 27, 2017

Thank you Mr. Hontz for your service and your uncompromising approach to our music education. Rest in peace.

Geraldine Winters

June 27, 2017

My deepest condolences to the Hontz Family. I didn't know Jack, but I had Jack's father for music in the Newton Public Schools. Very sorry for your lost, Jack & Elizabeth. Prayers.
Geraldine Winters NHS 68

Linda O'Leary

June 27, 2017

Cindy, Scottie, Jack, David, Donna, Mark, Stephanie

Isabella Pagan

June 27, 2017

My condolences to the Hontz Family!!!!

The Deering Family

June 27, 2017

My son Peter said, "Mr. Hontz made the football team better." We believe Jack made EVERYTHING better! There are no accolades great enough to describe this inimitable human being and we were ALL blessed that he was in our lives in the Strath Haven family. We pray for him and grieve his untimely loss. We especially pray for his wife and children and all those suffering his passing. Heaven is an even better place now. Mr. Hontz, the real music man, will always be remembered.

Waeckel

June 27, 2017

Our family wishes to send our heartfelt condolences to the Hontz family and may God bless Mr Hontz and the wonderful legacy and memories we have of the wonderful job he did for the Wallingford Swarthmore school district with the music program and all the lives he touched with his achievements. I have many fond memories of the wonderful band on the football fields of Strath Haven HS in the 90's. It was an amazing display of young adults playing their hearts out and the Dance Team also with their excellent showmanship. He will be greatly missed. Bless you and your family. We will miss you. Waeckel Family

KELLEY

June 27, 2017

MAY THE THOUGHT OF KNOWING THAT FRIENDS AND FAMILY SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF BRING YOU A MEASURE OF COMFORT.PLEASE READ PROV 17:17

Luder Family

June 27, 2017

Prayers and blessings for Jack's family. Haven Friday night's will never be the same, but Jack will be remembered every time the band matches and his cadence is heard.

Mary Jane West

June 27, 2017

Jack was given a great talent both as a teacher and a musician. What he contribution to so many is unbelievable. If we all could teach the world to sing what a different place this would be. The music he brought to the worship at Grove Church was inspirational.
Cindy, Jack, David, Matthew, and Emily, may God give you the strength and comfort you need in this great time of sorrow. May the memory of the legacy of your Husband and Dad gave to all of us bring you the memories that will sustain you. I am sorry for your loss. We all have lost.
MUCH LOVE TO ALL OF YOU!

June 27, 2017

The Beggs' family sends our condolences at this surprising, sudden loss of a good man - father, teacher, husband, coach and friend. God bless all! We will miss him.

Jim Scanlon

June 27, 2017

Our deepest condolences go out to the Hontz family. Jack touched many lives in such a positive way. He will be missed.

June 27, 2017

Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of your dear John. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family. May God comfort your hearts and give you the strength to help you endure the difficult days ahead. ( 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17)

June 27, 2017

I had the privledge of serving on the Wallingford Swarthmore school board for 16 years and one of the best decisions I made was to hire Jack. At the time we did not have a band and a sparce music program. Through his hard work, knowledge, love of music and students he grew our band into the largest in Pa. and our music program outstanding and inclusive. I considered Jack my friend . My husband and I have attended almost all of the home football games for the past 34 years just to watch the band and to get my Jack hug. Then to my joy my grandson joined the band four years ago which is a decion Reese is grateful he made as our his grandparents. What an absolute gift to for all of us who had Jack touch our lives.
John 3:16. Nancy Graham

Debby (Marion) Magnin

June 27, 2017

Jack was such a dedicated educator. He was one of the amazing teachers in the WSSD who encouraged my son with his passion. I'm so grateful for all he did. He will be so missed in this community. My thoughts are with all of his family and friends.

Virginia (Bojak) Motsay

June 27, 2017

Mr. Hontz "started us on the right foot" back in 1982 at Conestoga HS. He meant a lot to us students, and we are privileged to have been influenced by him personally and also be a part of his music legacy.

To Cindy and family, our sympathies go out to you during this time of great sadness. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

June 27, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hontz family as they come to grips with their tragic loss. Jack was a true educator and loved the students he worked with. Strath Haven will not be the same without this man. Thanks for the music, Jack.
The Spring Family

Jeffry Cadorette

June 27, 2017

There simply are no words adequate to express the ache that is felt with Jack's passing. Condolences and deepest sympathy to Cindy and family. We are so sorry for your loss. As part of Jack's Rotary family, we will miss you. Your absence from our Club is and will be palpable. Your contribution over the years was significant and is appreciated. One journey ends and the next begins. Safe travels, my friend, until we see you again.

June 27, 2017

Dear Matt,
Although we never knew your father personally, his life's work has been well known throughout the community for many years. He's left his mark on this world and will not be forgotten. We only wish we had had the honor and pleasure of meeting him ourselves. Please know we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.
And let the perpetual light shine upon him.

And may the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Much love,
The Schostak Family

Ellen Bernard

June 26, 2017

My heartfelt condolences to Jack's entire family.

Jack was a wonderful and caring teacher to our daughter and so many in the Strath Haven HS community. He worked long hours to instill a solid work ethic and a love for instrumentation in our youth. We will be forever grateful to him and his family for understanding Jack's long hours and allowing him to share their time with him with us.

Jack Hontz will forever be a part of SHHS history. He built the foundation of our band's "house" and he will be greatly missed.

May our family's prayers, and those of so many others, offer you comfort at this difficult time.

Fondly, The Bernard Family

Elizabeth Klinger

June 26, 2017

Jack was a wonderful teacher and played a big part in my daughters' education. I will always be grateful to him. I will miss his big smile and booming voice.

Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results

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Memorial Events
for John Hontz

Jun

30

Visitation

1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Strath Haven High School’s George H. Slick Auditorium

205 S. Providence Rd, Wallingford, PA

Jul

1

Memorial service

10:00 a.m.

Grove United Methodist Church

490 Boot Road, West Chester, PA

Funeral services provided by:

DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc.

410 North Church Street, West Chester, PA 19380

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