Dr. John W. Verbicky Jr.

1951 - 2022

Dr. John Walter Verbicky, Jr., 70, of White Lake, MI passed away Thursday, January 27, 2022, at his home. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Janine; his daughter, Julie Beth Emily Scamman and husband Robert; his two sons: John Walter Verbicky III and wife Kelly, and Christopher Andrew Verbicky and wife Kathleen; his step-daughter Kayla Marie Layton; his eleven grandchildren: Joshua, Matthew, Brandon, Daniel, Spencer, Isabella, Jonathan (JJ), Benjamin, Thomas, Sophia, and Autumn.

John was born October 12, 1951, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, the son of Mr. & Mrs. John Walter and Annie Marie (Carabello) Verbicky, Sr. During his professional life, John was a renowned chemist, successful corporate executive, and entrepreneur. He earned his Doctorate in physical organic chemistry in 1979 from the Georgia Institute of Technology and spent most of his career advancing the plastics and architectural materials industry. At General Electric, he served as manager of the Chemical Synthesis Laboratory and Manager of the Environmental Technology Laboratory at the Center for Research and Development in Niskayuna, NY during which time he contributed to 26 patents and authored more than 20 technical publications, mainly in the area of engineering thermoplastics and composites. After leaving GE to join Chemfab Corporation as Vice President of R&D, he grew his responsibilities and was ultimately named CEO. During this time, he was able to grow the organization; eventually completing the successful sale to Saint-Gobain prior to taking the helm of startup companies Envirokare, LRM Industries, and finally ECC. Even after his retirement in 2015, John continued to work as an industry consultant and private investor.

John was a driven competitor; a personality trait made evident by his love of sports. He started at a young age with baseball, football and basketball, and played basketball for Merrimack College; but it didn't stop there. He was an avid golfer for most of his life and continued to play softball at a championship level up until his death. He could always be found cheering on the NY Giants and Boston Celtics through the highs and lows, a devoted diehard fan.

John was equally passionate about the sea. From scuba diving, boating, and fishing, to conservation efforts, he lived most of his adult life no further than a few hours from the coast. As a father and grandfather, he instilled a love and respect for the ocean in the hearts of his children at a young age. John was highly philosophical, was a quick learner, and loved to debate; a trait that he loved to playfully use with his grandchildren. Through these discussions, his grandchildren learned the power of conviction, knowledge, and eloquent speaking. John loved good food and enjoyed sharing great meals, candy, and family recipes with his loved ones. His passion and zest for life will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Walter, Sr., and Annie Marie.

In accordance with John's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 4, 2022, at St. Luke's Catholic Church, 1241 State Street, Schenectady, New York 12304.