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John Pancott Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Pancott
Sponsored by Family.
George Davis
September 8, 2024
John(Jack) was an inspiration to me as a young Sergeant Instructor in the Army Physical Training Corps (now Royal) when I attended a 3 month gymnastics course in 1959.
Denis Buchan
September 8, 2023
A brother in law who I admired with great respect.trained me to be a physical training instructor without fear or favour.atrue soldier sadly missed by all who new him.
Michael Vanim
September 8, 2022
Mr. Pancott was my first gymnastics coach, and instilled my love for the sport, and to watch kids learn. He was always "on" and always the showman. I later coached at AJS Pancott, and now own my own gymnastics club. And all of this because of the love he gave me for the sport. (I also have a mural in my gym of him because he is the greatest)
Barbara Harrison
September 8, 2021
Great Gymnastic Coach
Fred Turoff
September 8, 2021
John's energy and influence are missed in our gymnastics community. We all lost a friend.
Doug Lubking
September 10, 2020
I've known the Chief since I was 4 yrs old. I'm 56 now and think about him every day. He was an inspiration to everyone he met!
Gary Anderson
September 8, 2020
I was so glad to get your email, to give me yet another chance to think about my dear friend Jack, and to share some thoughts and memories about him. He was truly a one man "entertainment center", always ready for a show or exhibition to perform and promote gymnastics. I loved hearing the many, many stories of his gymnastics travel and experiences. What a delightful and uplifting man who always had a positive attitude and a funny story to tell. Rest in peace my friend.
Ed Ford
September 8, 2020
A quality guy who committed his life to his family and helping athletes. I learned so much from John about coaching... he is sorely missed. Ed Ford
Beysy Torg
September 8, 2019
Remembering Mr Pancott with great affection and respect. He was an incredible teacher. I value my gymnastics experience still. Much love to Alice, Steve and Beverly. Betsy Torg
Barbara Harrison
September 8, 2019
Coach was a great person so glad he was in our lives .
October 14, 2016
I have not been connected with the gymnastics world for many, many years now but the six years I spent in Mr. Pancott's gym in the mid to late 70's -- first at Cabrini College and then at Valley Forge Military Academy -- have remained with me in so many ways. I have fond memories of his coaching -- the squeaky mouse in his pocket, "tripping" over the mat to make us laugh, his big warm smile and his ability to combine hard work and discipline with fun. There was meeting at Roy Rogers in Berwyn to depart for road trips to meets and stuffing envelopes in his dining room and summer camp at Cabrini College. I still have my first team uniform: The Young Americans! The confidence I gained in his gym stayed with me as I went on to do other sports both in high school and in college. He made a difference in the lives of so many young people, including mine, and his legacy lives on in all of us. My heartfelt condolences to Beverly, Steve, and Alice. I will hold you in the light in the time ahead. May the love of family and friends surround you and buoy you up as you move forward in life without your dear Jack. Peace and love to each of you.
Betsy Torg
Denis Butch Buchan.
October 5, 2016
Jack was to me not only a fine Brother in Law but a wonderful friend.We spent many happy times together and his enthusiasm to all was incredible.He will be sorely missed by many friends and family all over the World.
Amy Hunt
August 22, 2016
I took gymnastics classes at John Pancott when i was little. I was an awkward kid who was bullied a whole lot. At Pancott I fit in, I was encouraged and it was a safe place for me to be me. He will be missed . John touched so many lives.
Melyce Lucchesi
May 27, 2016
You gave more to me than you'll ever know! Thank you! Rest in peace.
Barbara Harrison
October 15, 2015
Dear Alice.Beverly and Steve and Family. I was so very sorry to her of your great loss,We thought so very much of Mr. Pancott. You and your family are in our Prayers and thoughts. Also my son Bill Harrison sends his condolences to everyone.
beverly pancott
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October 8, 2015
We cannot tell you how sad we were to hear the news of Jack's passing. He was always the life and soul of the party and will be sadly missed by all
who knew him. Especially the very close bond that he had with his friends
from 'The Corps'.
I am sure that you were aware that this last weekend was the annual 'Nik
Stuart' dinner in Meriden. Many kind words were said about Jack, and a large
poster of him on the rings took pride of place on the wall.
I attach a little tribute from our daughter Claire, along with our own from the RGA. Both of these are now on the club noticeboard.
Once again our most sincere condolences to you and your family. Our love and thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
Colin, Bernie and Claire Wright
October 8, 2015
We are so very sorry to hear the news about Jack. As Denis says, he was the sort of man you feel is indestructible. You must all feel the loss very greatly. Although you live so far away from us we felt close to you in the family, and I had a special feeling for him after my Dad passed away and Jack reminded me so much of him. He was a man full of character and wonderful stories of the great life he had led, and Colin and I were so pleased to have had the chance to spend time with you this summer. We are very glad that you have all the family round you to support you.
Brian and Chris were also very sad to hear about Jack. I know they all join with me in sending you our love and would want me to say that we are all thinking of you. Elizabeth has told us a little of your planned funeral arrangements and we would be glad to be kept up to date with your plans.
Love to all the family, but especially to you, Alice, at this difficult time.
Jacqui and Colin
Denis Buchan
October 8, 2015
I am so sorry to hear about Jack's Passing.It came as a great shock to me.I have always thought that Jack was indestructible.He was to me a great friend and a wonderful brother in law and I always remember him in the way he gave his time to Pat and me and my Girls.His loss will be hard to take for all the people whose lives he touched. His way with children will be a very hard act to follow.
I am sure however you will find great strength in the support from your wonderful family,and please pass on to them my deepest sympathy's.We here in South Africa are thinking off you and remember well the fantastic times we had when you visited us here and when you all took care of us on our trips to America.
God Bless
Yours aye
Denis and Doreen.
xxxx.
beverly pancott
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Stephen Cook
October 8, 2015
Gymnastics has lost a true legend. It's with a very heavy heart and tears in my eyes that I am letting you know that John Pancott has passed away. I met John over 45 years ago when I was a young gymnast and admired a competitor and coach that new how to keep the sport fun. John, Jack, Mr. Pancott, Chief, was my first boss, inspiration, mentor, and friend. He could simultaneously entertain and teach. He taught me a work ethic that I carry to this day. No job is done until the details are completed and you leave the sight looking better than you found it. Anyone that ever saw his fly paper routine or heard the imaginary mouse in his pocket know how John could make us smile. For anyone who has ever wondered why I start my day so early, or better yet have followed that lead, you should know that it's because of John. John never changed. He was a tireless worker, a creative thinker, and an unbelievable positive influence on thousands and thousands of children. I'm proud to be one of Jack's kids.
I will forever remember and miss my good friend.
Ed Spinelli
October 6, 2015
My eyes are filled with tears as I just learned moments ago of the passing of a dear man whom I loved and was truly honored to know and call my friend, my mentor, my coach. A man that encouraged me, led me,and showed me what it meant to live intentionally & with purpose and who really taught me to believe in myself and who boldly showed me his belief in me.
In fact, he was the first man That I truly felt believed in me fully and gave me the confidence to do things I never thought or knew I could do. Because of him, I ventured out and changed my life dramatically, forever. If you knew me most of my young life, you would have known I did not have many positive male role models in my life, but one or two very special coaches.
I remembered when he gave me my blessing and sent me out on my own to do what he did and I thought I can't wait to be just like him.
Well Chief, there is no one just like you... you inspired more children and young people, made more people laugh & smile,made everyone that you spoke to feel a if they were the most special person in the world! You made me a better coach, a better leader,and better person because of all you taught me.
I am heartbroken that today your family, the entire gymnastics community & the world has lost such a bright light as you, but I know that you must know that your light shines on brilliantly in the thousands of lives you touched. I remember the first time you caught me imitating you to our girls..."A clean gym is a tidy gym..." and that "Edwaaard, you dare?!". How we all laughed so often at that...
Well Jack, ( John), Mr Pancott...and to those of us who were his gymnasts and coaches, I tried my best to keep a tidy gym, though none would compare to yours, and like you I tried my best to teach & coach, but I landed a little short sir, you see, this time you set the bar to high...with you as the example , none of could ever reach that height, but I hope you went to God knowing that because of you we all tried our very best.
All knew you as a 3 time Olympian, but us lucky ones who were yours, knew your accomplishments were unmeasurable in all the lives you changed. Rest peacefully my dear friend, mentor, coach & lifestep...
Bree Truby
October 6, 2015
The world lost an unforgettable and irreplaceable man yesterday. There is no one that I know that enjoyed life as much as he did. Grandad/Jack/Mr. Pancott you will wholeheartedly be missed as the world was a better place with you in it. My heart breaks for my cousins & Pancott family ❤
Chrissy McLaughlin
October 6, 2015
Mr. Pancott was my first coach, my first amazing influence on my life outside of my family, and a person that opened so many doors for me as an adolescent. His legacy will live on through the thousands of gymnasts whose lives he has helped mold, the hundreds of coaches he has mentored, and his wonderful family who help keep his love of life alive. Mr. Pancott, I thought we would have you for many, many more years. Thank you so much for being such an important part of my life. You will never be forgotten. Prayers and peace to your family. I'm lifting my pinky up now to have a drink in your honor! It's not at McDonald's where we all giggled pretending to be British Royalty, but it will do. Beverly Pancott and family, you are in my prayers. Squeak!
October 6, 2015
One of the greatest educators and proponent to PA gymnastics and men's gymnastics at large has passed today. Mr. Pancott has touched countless amount of children and adults on the pursuit to making life better with gymnastics. If you had the chance to meet Jack you would know his energy for life was contagious . He was ageless and an angel on earth. As a community,we are all stronger and better because of him.
Please keep your thoughts and prayers with his immediate and extended family during this time of sadness. More importantly know that he deserves a high salute and celebration to his life.
Mike Acevedo Mike Burns Barry Mattern Joe Stallone Carole Carslaw David Evasew Kyle Zak Thaddeus Abbott Duane Lee Phillip Zak Scott Carslaw
Pink Invitational
October 6, 2015
It is with tremendous sadness that we share with you the loss of a legend in the gymnastics community. John Pancott, Olympic gymnast and founder of Pancott Gymnastics, died after experiencing some health issues. Those who knew him and his contagious joy are mourning the loss of a great man. A gentleman. In his career, he made a lasting impact on the sport he loved and will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure to meet him. Our prayers and condolences go out to the entire Pancott family.
Susan Doyle
October 6, 2015
Mr. Pancott was the first coach to ever lay eyes on Kelly. I will never forget the day they met Kel was only 4 years old! Thank you Mr. Pancott.
Jeremy Bingaman
October 6, 2015
Mr. Pancott was one of the greatest people
I've ever known, his life will be celebrated long after today. As with all of his gymnasts I am honored to have considered him among my mentors and friends.
Solivita Veterans
October 6, 2015
The Veterans Club of Solivita will honor John Pancott's military service and passing with a ceremony to lower the National Flag to half staff at Freedom Park for three days beginning Saturday September 19, 2015 at 9 AM.
October 6, 2015
Colleagues, Friends and former British gymnasts will raise their glasses in memory of Jack Pancott at the Nik Stuart Foundation Hall of Fame Annual Awards Dinner Saturday, 19th September.
Susan Robertson
October 6, 2015
Fitting that today is national gymnastics day! RIP Mr Pancott! You gave me a life long love of the sport, taught me valuable values, showed me how big the world was, taught me how to black top a driveway, and most of all gave me a real appreciation for deadlines! Beverly Pancott #goodtimes I look forward to meeting again! #nationalgymnasticsday
Barbara DiSipio
October 6, 2015
He was an amazing man who was awesome to be a part of the first & second John Pancott Invitational. I remember when Doug Lubking and I were having dinner at the hotel, at IGC, and I inquired about how to run an meet ..... Doug went right over to Church Farm to see how much it would cost.......I'm so happy the John Pancott Invitational is still going on!
Beverly Pancott
October 6, 2015
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British Olympic Team
Beverly Pancott
October 6, 2015
Duane Milne
October 6, 2015
A beloved family member, dedicated gymnastics coach and avowed community steward, Mr. Pancott exemplified the best qualities of the human experience. He generously gave of his heart and time to enhance the quality of life for his family and community, and his loss will be felt by the many individuals who knew, admired and loved him. PA House of Repesentatives
Kim Schwab
September 29, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to Alice and family! My brother, Jeff Beasom, was a student of his in the 70's and our whole family has wonderful memories of a terrific man! He truly was a positive influence in all of our lives.
Mike Raines
September 25, 2015
I was so saddened to hear from Mike Pancott that John had passed. I first met John 37 years ago when he was with Nissen and I was just starting in gymnastics equipment business. He went out of his way to be friendly, even though we were competitors. It meant even more when he stopped working with Nissen and turned to me to help with his equipment needs. His enthusiasm for gymnastics and life will be missed. My sincere condolences to the Pancott family.
Tim and Kathy Weber
September 25, 2015
We were so very sorry to hear of Mr. Pancott's passing. We will always remember him fondly from the many years our sons (Bryan, Kyle, Shaun and Dan) competed on "Mr. Pancott's Gym Team" back in the 1980's and '90's. He was wonderful with the kids, an extremely positive influence and a warm and genuine man. He will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Our deepest sympathies to the entire Pancott family.
George Davis
September 25, 2015
Jack was my instructor at ASPT in 1958. He was such an inspiration to me and countless others who subsequently joined the Corps. My sincere condolences to Alice and all the family.
Denis WILLIAMS
September 24, 2015
Jack was at the PT school during my early years as a A/I on courses and later as a new PT Corp instructer.
He was a great influence and help to me during those years.I send my condolences and thoughts to his family at this very sad time Denis
Elaine and Jack Grauch
September 21, 2015
John Pancott was such a positive influence on my daughter, Christina. His warmth and humor lite up Pancott gymnastics center. He always encouraged others and taught them to do their best. We will really miss this great man. May God comfort you during this difficult time. Love to you all Pancott Family.
Colleen Lubking
September 19, 2015
Mr. Pancott... A life changer, one of the most positive forces in the universe. We could never say goodbye, so just "see you later" for now until we meet again upstairs.
Arleen Boruta
September 18, 2015
My daughters, Sarah and Molly, grew up at the gym and because of this became strong women which I have no doubtt, was influenced by what they they learned at Pancotts. They, and their fellow team mates, were taught perseverance, respect, and about having goals and true friendships. This is what John Pancott instilled in his students. He was so loved and will always be in the hearts of all those who passed his way. A good man, a good teacher, and a mentor to the younger generation., his was truly a life well lived.
Douglas Lubking
September 18, 2015
"The Chief". What else can be said about a man who lit up every room he ever stepped foot in, made every person feel like they are the most special person he's ever met, and made every child he came into contact with love him unconditionally?
The man has made a positive difference in everyone's life that knew him, made every athlete he ever taught the best that they could be, and believed in the idea that anything was possible.
We all will miss "The Chief"
Goodbye, Mr. Pancott
Gloria Slater
September 17, 2015
I spent countless hours with both my children watching all the kids loving gymnastics for 10 years, working out at the gym and all over the region in competitions. Everyone, parents and children alike, loved Pancotts. I was very happy to have my son and daughter there. Mr. Pancott is an icon, because he represents the best of gymnastics, sport and being a man of honor. He is a man who will truly live on in our hearts as a great example of what to be. Thank you Mr. Pancott and my prayers for the entire family and those who will miss him most who are in the gym right now. Gloria Slater
JPI - Classic Mr. P
September 17, 2015
Olympian 1960 & 1964
September 17, 2015
September 16, 2015
So sorry to hear about Mr. Pancott. We had countless birthday parties at his gym for my daughters. A Pancott party was always a hit, especially when he would have the children "fly" in the air! Thinking of his family . He was a wonderful man
Denis Buchan
September 16, 2015
A wonderful friend and Brother in Law.So many happy memories one can never forget.From Aldershot to Singapore and Hawaii to Berwyn and South Africa.Gone but will never be forgotten Butch.
September 16, 2015
Mr. Pancott made my childhood. The travel. Being a part of President's Council on Physical Fitness. We traveled the country...even to North Dakota, lol. I saw my first Target there, and we were all so confused when we were chased out at 8 pm, only to learn at 8 pm everything in Bismark shut down. When I was a little kid on trips, he always took care of me when the big kids were watching scary movies...I got to hear the stories :) I always thought I was one of his favorites, and then I realized he made everyone his favorite. And I loved him even more for that.
June Amarant
September 15, 2015
Our condolences to the Pancott family. Mr. Pancott taught gymnastics to our three children during their elementary years. They loved going to the gym and in fact we had several birthday parties there. He showed such love of the sport and it transcended to the children.
Deb Streeter-Davitt
September 15, 2015
Thinking of you and your family. Praying for your comfort.
Christie Hoyt- Friedant
September 15, 2015
What a great man who made practice fun! Not many like him out there. Great memories of the whole Pancott family.
Jim Roe
September 15, 2015
Our condolences to the Pancott family. We are saddened by the loss of such a positive influence on so many athletes and families. Jack showed you could have fun in gymnastics and work hard at the same time. To this day, I still greet some folks with Jack's "kiss my own hand" technique and Jack and a smile always come to mind. Working clinics with Jack in the '70's - '80's made me a better coach and teacher. Heaven is a better place today. God Bless Jack. Jim and Mary Roe, Virginia International Gymnastics Schools, Richmond, VA
September 15, 2015
Our sincere condolences to the Pancott family. I am saddened by the passing of such a positive influence on so many athletes and families. Jack showed that you can have great fun while working hard in the sport of gymnastics. To this day, I still greet some folks with his "same hand kiss" technique and he comes to mind with a smile every time. Working clinics in the '70 - '80's with Jack made me a better coach and teacher. Heaven's a better place today. God Bless Jack. Jim and Mary Roe, Virginia International Gymnastics Schools, Richmond, VA
Gary Anderson
September 15, 2015
What a great loss to the gymnastics community. My thoughts and prayers are with the family Rest assured he will be organizing a gymnastics class or exhibition for God by Sunday. Sincerely, Gary Anderson and all his family.
Riane Powell
September 15, 2015
Thank you for being my first coach. You are the one that made me fall in love with Gymnastics. Love Mildred
Susan Harper
September 15, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Pancott family during this difficult time. We feel so blessed to have met such a supportive, positive, funny gymnastic coach. He will be greatly missed. We feel fortunate to have known him and lucky to have been a part of the Pancott gymnastics family. May he rest in peace.
American Heart Association
September 14, 2015
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Michael Vanim
September 14, 2015
My thoughts are with the Pancott family, as they have been part of my life for the last 40 years. John was my first coach. I also worked for AJS Pancott, and I know that John will be missed by all of us.
Hugh & Donna Gerlach
September 14, 2015
If it weren't for Mr. Pancott, My wife and I would not be where we are today. He gave a struggling kid a chance. With love, great affection and respect we send our condolences to the Pancott family.
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