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John McHugh Obituary
John F. McHugh, 79, of Allentown passed away Monday, September 20, 2010. He was the son of the late John F. McHugh and M. Isabelle Keiser McHugh Wolfe and stepfather Joseph P. Wolfe. He was married to Marion (Overpeck) McHugh for 54 years and together they raised two boys: Joseph and Michael. John served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955 during the Korean War. Jack graduated from Allentown High School in 1949 and served as the president of his class. He graduated from Kutztown State College with a bachelors degree and earned a masters and doctorate degree in education from Lehigh University in 1968.In 1960, Jack won a nationwide contest for teachers from the John Gunther High Road television program that afforded him an all-expense-paid trip around the world. This fostered in him the travel bug, which he and his wife would satiate with numerous international trips both as a tour director and a private adventurer. He spent his entire professional career with the Allentown School District in the classrooms at Jefferson, Muhlenberg and Sheridan elementary schools and later became principal at the Horne, Livingston, Roosevelt and Wilson schools. In 1971, he returned to Allen High School as principal. He thoroughly enjoyed his years in public education and for the remainder of his life he loved meeting his former students and faculty. Upon retirement from the ASD in 1982, he was elected as a county commissioner for Lehigh County and served for 19 years. One of his many accomplishments was the oral histories of World War Two veterans that he conducted. Jack belonged to many local civic groups and was a sought after public speaker throughout the community. Jack had a life-long interest in Franklin D. Roosevelt and the presidents family. Jack donated his extensive collection of books to the F.D.R. library at the Little White House at Warm Springs, Ga. He recorded oral histories with people who were contemporaries of the first family in Hyde Park and Val- Kyll, N.Y. These tapes were given to the Val-Kyll foundation.Jack wrote extensive daily dairies. travel logs and a history of the Great Allentown Fair and, during his waning months, an essay on his personal spiritual sojourn. Survivors: Jack McHugh is survived by his wife, Marion; and son, Joseph and daughter-in-law, Valerie and grandson Timothy of Washington, D.C.; and son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Kathleen of Swansboro, N.C. Services: Mass of Christian Burial, 11 a.m. Friday, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 501 Ridge Ave., Allentown. Call 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Bachman Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, 17 and Hamilton Sts, Allentown and 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Friday in he church. Entombment at Cedar Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum, Allentown. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the John F. McHugh Leadership Foundation at William Allen High School.
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Memories and Condolences
for John McHugh
Robin Heiney
September 16, 2024
De McHugh was my principal from 73-76 at William Allen. He was a wonderful and loving person. He always spent time talking to everyone. You will be missed. To his family I am sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family.
Mark Reifinger
September 16, 2024
Mr. McHugh was my principal at Livingston Elementary School then again at William Allen.
I can still see his face after almost 50 years out of school. Sorry for your loss.
David Bausch
September 16, 2019
John was one of the good guys.
Susan and Chuck Kalan
October 10, 2010
John McHugh, you were a gentleman in every sense of the word. It was a privilege to interview you for the East Penn Press for many hours, whether it was on your lifelong interest for the Roosevelt family or for the Great Allentown Fair. My husband, Chuck, and I loved browsing through your archives while you provided fascinating narration! You and Marion were most gracious to us. You had a passion for life and for people. I'll never forget your quote: "That's what I enjoyed about public service, not the politics but the people -- that if we argued, we could still shake each other's hands." You were an ambassador for Allen High School as well, and your work with young people has made a lasting impression in our community. We could not attend your service because Chuck fell ill for several weeks, but we were praying for your beloved Marion. We will miss you, my friend.
Michael McKenna
October 5, 2010
I graduated early in 72 with the special exemption granted to those who had enough credits to graduate and were going into the armed forces. "Doc McHugh" as we liked to call him saw enough in me to make me stage crew mgr in my junior year. we had a great rapport then and it held throughout the years into our adult lives. I will miss this man and his infectious smile and wit and the way he put everyone at ease with his awesome personality.
Tami Herb Simon
October 5, 2010
Rest in Peace to our beloved principal Dr. John McHugh. You will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all.
You represented our school with love, honor, dignity, and respect. A sincere thank-you from your former students, especially from the class of 73.
My mother Shirley Toolan Herb was a classmate of yours and she would also like to offer her condolences to your family.
My heartfelt condolences to your family and friends. You will live on in the hearts of all of your former students. God Bless you!
Suzanne Edick
October 4, 2010
Dr. McHugh was principal when I attended Allen High School 1972--1975. He was always friendly and attended many school functions. He remembered my name at a former teacher's funeral almost 30 years later. It is a great man who can remember his students.
Vincent Doddy
September 29, 2010
JACK will be sadly missed by my mother, Anna Doddy & myself.
He was a caring person & thought about the welfare of others more than himself. I arrived to the viewing 9:20 PM and was not able to enter, offer my condolences to Mrs. McHugh & sons & say MY final farewell to JACK.
GOD REST HIS GOOD SOUL.
Phil Newman
September 28, 2010
Jack and I were together in many ways: AHS Class Presidents in 1949 and 1950, principal and parent - my four children, and County Commissioner in 1987 - 1991. It was an honor and pleasure to be involved with him all these years. He had a great impact on the Lehigh Valley.
Fernley Palmer
September 27, 2010
Allentown has lost a fine man.When he was the principle at Roosevelt School,he was one of the few people who saw the potential that my son had.My son later enlisted in the U.S.Navy and served for 25 years. He attained the rank of Master Chief before leaving the service.Dr.Mc Hugh was an influence at an age which stayed with him.My wife and I think fondly of him[he will be missed]. F.Palmer
Dale Serfass
September 27, 2010
the Family of John Mchugh: Even though, I graduated from Dieruff High in '68, I got to know him at the Allentown fair. He was a great person within the community and a friend to his students. he swill greatly be missed. My deepest symapthies to you and may our Lord get you through your priod of bereavement.
Dale Serfass
September 27, 2010
The Family of John McHugh.Even though, I grauated from Dieruff, I still got to know him from The Allentown fair. he was a great person within the comunity and he will be greatly missed. My deepest sypathy to you all and may the straigth of our Lord get you through your bereavement.
Deborah (Jones) Hudock
September 27, 2010
Dear McHugh Family:
My sympathy to you at this time of loss.
It was a privilege to have had John McHugh as my 5th Grade Teacher at Muhlenberg School in 1957. He was an inspiration for many during his lifetime.
Jean Balliet
September 26, 2010
To McHugh Family,our deepest sympathy to you and your family. He was great teacher and princial from Allen High School. God Bless!!!
From Jean D.(Briggs)Balliet, the Brown Family and Barthohew Family
Judith Harris
September 26, 2010
Dear Marion, Mike, Joe, and family,
Please accept my most sincere sympathy on your loss of a wonderful husband and father. Dr. McHugh's commitment to fostering his Allen High School students' education and personal development was exemplary. He was a fine role model in very many respects, not the least of which were his love for his family, his support of our community, and his passion for excellence in intellectual pursuits (most notably, history and FDR). He was a loyal and enthusiastic cheerleader for our school and its students. Over the years, I always looked forward to seeing him at Commissioner meetings, Allentown Fair meetings, and other community events.
Please know that I share your loss of this splendid human being and I am thinking of each of you.
Judy Harris AHS '79
Cathy Roberts
September 25, 2010
My deepest condolences to your family. Dr McHugh was my principal at Allen and I had nothing but the highest admiration for him. He was so helpful to my family after the death of my mother and so very compassionate. We spent many hours with his own sons on the swim team and my whole family admired him. God bless him and his whole family.
Joe Moffa
September 25, 2010
I was greatly saddened to hear of Dr. McHugh's passing. He was a great family friend and will be missed by all that knew him. I moved out of the area many years ago and the last time I talked to Jack was at my fathers funeral in 2001. His unbelievable memory and gift of storytelling greatly comforted our family during our time of grief. He was truly one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of loss.
Joe Moffa - Class of 1976
Rick Crouthamel
September 25, 2010
My deepest condolences to the McHugh family on the passing of this great man. What I remember most vividly about Dr. McHugh was the obvious and infectious joy and intense pride he took in the excellence of the William Allen music department. In short, Doc McHugh made it cool to be a Bando. His was a life richly lived. And he will be remembered for a long time to come.
September 25, 2010
To the McHugh family,
Our thoughts are with you at this time. Dr. McHugh was a terrific principal and his enthusiasm was contagious -- whether it was for Allen High, FDR or young people in general. It was an honor to know him.
Chuck Dervarics
Alexandria, VA
AHS class of 1978
Terry L. Weida
September 24, 2010
Dr. McHugh was my school principal at Horne Elementary and Allen High. He was a friend of my mother's and we would often see him by chance. He was always kind, friendly and happy. When I think of him, I see a picture in my mind of his smiling face. As a student at Allen, I asked to speak with him about a matter, and was pleasantly surprised that he remembered me. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
September 24, 2010
Dear Marion and Family:
I was very sorry to hear of Jack's death.He had such a wonderful sense of humor and was one of the best storytellers I had ever met.It was a pleasure working with him while I was Clerk to the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners. My prayers are with you all.
Mary Haney, Durham North Carolina
Rufus & Sharon Murray
September 24, 2010
Mike and Family, We were sorry to hear
about the passing of your dad. Please
know that our hearts are with you and
your family.......
Cynthia Lambert
September 24, 2010
Dear Marion and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your husband and father. He was, indeed, the consummate teacher and I can testify to having learned many valuable lessons in both government and politics from Dr. McHugh during the years we both worked for the County of Lehigh. I will always remember seeking his wise and practical counsel on legislative issues facing the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners when we were colleagues on that Board. It was a great loss for the people of this County when he resigned from the Board.
May he rest in peace, and may you find peace in knowing that as a result of his life's work and passion, he improved many people's lives.
Jan McNair
September 24, 2010
Dear Marion and Family,
When I taught at Roosevelt School many years ago, I first met Jack in the teachers' lunch room when he came for a meeting with Mary Wagner, my principal. I immediately became aware of his rich sense of humor and affinity for people, especially teachers.
Much later in life, when he and my husband served as county commissioners at the same time, I became more acquainted with Jack.
While I always admired his leadership skills both as a public servant and an educator, I connected with him because we both were writing our journals. We compared notes on the process, the content, and talked at length about how writing added another dimension to our lives. I am still writing my journel, but Jack has written his last chapter and now rests in eternity with our Lord. Although Jack has written "The End", we know that death is not an ending, but the beginning of a new life without pain or sorrow.
I wish you all strength and comfort as you face the days ahead.
Sincerely,
Jan McNair
September 24, 2010
Mike, I am so sorry for your loss, My thoughts and prays are with you and your family.
~Krissy Gillum
Nevin Miller
September 24, 2010
McHugh Family,
My sincerest condolences on your loss. Dr. McHugh will be sorely missed by Allentown and all the lives he touched. He is an example of the kind of human being we all should attain to be. I am blessed to have known him.
Nevin Class of '79'
Kathy Koles
September 24, 2010
To the McHugh family:
Let me extend my deepest sympathy to you during this time of loss. Dr. McHugh was always out among the students-he had such a positive presence and such a sincere generosity of spirit. When my dad told me that my "old buddy" had passed away-I could see Dr. McHugh having coffee with us, coming over to sit with us at lunch-we always looked forward to being with him and we trusted him. Despite how time and distance has scattered us, today we are reconnected by this man's incredible life. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn.
And to my "old buddy" I say "Well done, good and faithful servant"
Lisa Draper
September 23, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
I was saddened to read about the loss of Dr. McHugh. I was too young to have him as a principal at Wm. Allen; however, my older brothers and sisters did. I remember sitting in the huge auditorium listening to him speak at times. My mother thought the world of him because he grew up in the city as well. It is amazing to realize that he touched lives of so many people like me that he never even knew personally. He was a great man. They just do not make administrators like him anymore. Too many administrators today focus on test scores rather than on reaching and genuinely helping children. He cared about children. May God bless all of you in your time of loss...and may Dr. McHugh enjoy his new life with Jesus Christ.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lisa (Smitreski) Draper
Class of 1987
Lower Macungie, PA
Sherri Simon
September 23, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
My deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband and father. I remember him fondly. My mother also remembered him fondly (Patricia McCandless Simon Call of '50).
May the Peace that passes all understanding be with you today and always.
Sherri Simon
Jo Anne Knoll
September 23, 2010
Dear Marion and family. Dr. McHugh meant a lot to many people. He had a genuine way of making each and every person he met feel special. I have many fond memories of Dr. McHugh and shall cherish them forever.
September 23, 2010
Dear Marion, Please accept my sincere sympathy on the death of Dr. McHugh. He was a friend and cheer leader for Allen High and the class of "49. Dave Bausch '49er.
September 23, 2010
To Marion and the McHugh Family,
Jack was a mentor and friend to us. He served as a model for my career as an administrator in the Allentown School District. I am indebeted to him for all he did for me. In addition, our families traveled together to many interesting places. We treasure his friendship and will miss him greatly.
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis Blankowitsch
MIGUEL ORTIZ
September 23, 2010
my condolences to joe and family..your father was myprincipal at LIVINGSTON AND ALSO AT WM,ALLEN he always smiled and had encourging words when he spoke to me a GREAT man ..GOD BLEES AND KEEP YOUS ALL ,,MIGUEL ORTIZ CLASS 75
Jack Walter
September 23, 2010
To Marion and the McHugh Family,
My deepest condolences for the loss of Dr. McHugh. He was a wonderful man, both kind and intelligent and greatly supportive of all those who wanted to beter themselves in life. I treasure the time I spent with him a few years ago as he brought me up to date on what had happened to many of the faculty of Wm. Allen HS and my classmates of the class of 1975. He was a major figure in the lives of so many, and he will always be remembered with love and fondness. God bless.
Lee Freeman
September 23, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
My deepest sympathy on the passing of Dr. McHugh. He was a great leader and role model - especially for those of us who attended Allen HS while he was Principal. He will be missed but his legacy will live on.
Lee Freeman, Class of '74
Gregg Scully
September 23, 2010
A wonderful, enduring marriage to the love of his life, a lifelong commitment to service, and the raising of two fine sons with the utmost love and respect for their parents--a model for all of us living in an age when, sadly, these things seem increasingly rare. Thank you for reminding us it can be done. God's blessings to the McHugh family.
Ann Wlazelek
September 23, 2010
Dear Marion and sons, I grieve with you for the loss of such a warm, giving, humanitarian and teacher. I will always remember him as an icon for Allen, good citizenship and community leadership. He deserves much and asked little. We are all better having known Jack McHugh.
Fondly..
September 23, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
My deepest condolences to you all. William Allen High School has lost it's number one cheerleader from this world.
In the course of our lives we have people who become influential in our growth, or have just been a great role model to our surroundings. Dr. McHugh was both to the Allen High community, as well as to Allentown. I was once taught that as I grow older to seek out those who have been positive influences in my life and tell them so. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to do just that two years ago, and our chat was wonderful. It was refreshing to hear the same enthusiasm for our beloved alma mater as it was when I walked the halls of Allen. God bless you Dr. McHugh and may God give comfort to your family.
-Cheryl Kincaid Saul, Class of '76
Linda class 1977
September 23, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Brian Mitchell
September 23, 2010
I didn't love school--it was the principal of the thing!
Dr. McHugh was one of a kind. He will always be remembered affectionately.
Brian K. Mitchell/Class of '75
Dean Hermany
September 23, 2010
Joe It saddened me to hear of your father's passing. Celebrate his great life knowing that he is in a better place. May God bless you and your family.
carol class1975
September 22, 2010
May god bless a great man who devoted his life to make this world a better place for us.
Kathy Kline Kindt
September 22, 2010
My heartfelt sympathies to the McHugh family. Dr McHugh was a well respected principal; always fair and a wonderful inspiration to us all.
thomas Bauer class of 1981
September 22, 2010
To the McHugh Family,I want to thank you for dedicating your life to the teaching.When I got to William Allen High I was not sure I could graduate but you had faith in the ones that thought they could not make it.Thanks for being you
Peter Iles
September 22, 2010
I wanted to express my deepest sympathies to the McHugh family at this most difficult time. Over the past 16 years, I have served as the adviser to the Canary newspaper and Comus yearbook at Allen. On several occasions, my students and I contacted Dr. McHugh to ask him questions about the school and its history, and he was always so helpful and so enthusiastic! He explained things so well, and told us some great stories about Allen High.
In 1987, when I was in the 11th grade at Allen, I decided to write my research paper on Franklin D. Roosevelt. My English teacher, Ms. Virginia McCormick, said that we had to interview someone about our topic as one of our sources. Ms. McCormick referred me to Dr. McHugh. I called him at home, and took the time to explain some key facts about FDR's life to me. I will never forget that kindness.
As well, my mother-in-law, who passed in 1999, had some wonderful memories of Dr. McHugh. She taught second grade at the Livingston School from 1965-67. She said that Dr. McHugh really helped her through her first few years of teaching. My mother-in-law, Karen Kratzel Samok, would later teach in the Palmerton School District. She retired in 1998, but she always remembered Dr. McHugh.
Please know that Dr. McHugh's kindness was remembered by so many. He truly exemplified the Canary spirit. Again, my condolonces.
Susan Clark Schuppp
September 22, 2010
Dear Marion and the McHugh Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about Jack’s passing. He was an inspiration to me as a student at Allen High School and also in my professional career. Our community has also lost a devoted and loved individual for Lehigh County and Allentown. Dr. McHugh was a passionate man about so many things and in his presence you could feel his devotion to his causes. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. In heaven, God received an Anglel.
Dave Seibert
September 22, 2010
He was a great man ! Took the time to encourage me to be a better person when others had given up !
My sympathy goes out to the family .
Thanks !
Dave Seibert (AHS 1972-74)
September 22, 2010
You made a difference in alot of lives and your contribution did not go unnoticed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of loss. Rest In Peace Dr. McHugh
Sharon ( Bedwell) Miller
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh Family, I will always remember Dr Mchugh, he was a very kind and understanding principle, he would always make time to talk with his students no matter what he was doing, He was also a very good friend of my Grandfather Charles Bittler. God Bless
April Brader
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
Dr. McHugh was such a good and loving man throughout his life. He made an indelible imprint on every student's life he touched. I will always be grateful to him for reaching out to help me while at William Allen High School. He brought us so much joy once again at our last Class of 1982 Reunion. He laughed, joked and sang along with his old students...I will always remember that evening and how his eyes sparkled and how happy it made him. May God bless your family and may it give you peace to know how much he was loved.
Bev (Hacker) Breniser
September 22, 2010
To the McHugh Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of "Mr. McHugh," my wonderful 5th grade teacher while a student at Muhlenberg Elementary School. His enthusiasm and passion for education and for his students was incredible and I am sure that it was he who was my inspiration to become an elementary teacher and principal for 35 years. As a 1965 AHS grad., I cherished my years as a student of the Allentown School District and I have no doubt that much of the success can be credited to Jack. He was a sensational individual and now he can use his skills in a far better place. Rest in Peace, dear friend.
Karen Duh
September 22, 2010
Dear Marion and Family,
My deepest sympathy on the death of Jack. I loved having you and Jack in my classes at the Senior Center. He always kept me on my toes. The article in the newspaper was such a wonderful tribute to Jack and you. I am so sorry for your loss.
Cheryl (Williams)Franco
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. As a alumni of AHS Class of '75, I remember Dr. McHugh as being a wonderful Principal and protector of the students in his care each and every day.
suzanne parker
September 22, 2010
Roosevelt School Waive You Banner High..Make Your Green and Yellow Colors Fly, Fly, Fly. It's the Best School That You Will Find. And I'm So Proud That It Is MINE! Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Show Your Teddybear Pride, The Pride That Is Spoken, The Pride You Cannot Hide. Long time ago, "Mr." Mchugh was my principal at Rooselvelt. A potentially intimidating man, (to me, I was only in elementary school.) But a real softy, and supporter of The Roosevelt Pride. I'll never forget the huge Grizzly bear that stood in our lobby. Didn't quite understand when he became Dr. Mchugh. I thought he was leaving us for the medical profession. That made me sad. Well, I was in fifth grade. What an extraordinary man!!! What a legacy in ASD. Suzanne Parker
Lynda Moyer-Scheidler
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time. My husband and I were classmates at William Allen, graduated in 74 and 76, when Dr McHugh was principal. It was a pleasant surprise to see him at one of our reunions. We will always remember his kindness, his empathy to his students, his fairness. He welcomed everyone he met with respect and a warm smile. He left an imprint on this world, that is not easily matched, through all he accomplished and mastered. It was just part of who he was. A great educator, role model and leader. His warm light will shine in heaven for all of eternity.
Tim and Sherry Yocum
September 22, 2010
To the McHugh family,
Dr. McHugh was a great role model to the Allentown School District. I had him as a principal at Livingston he was great and always smiling. May your hearts be at peace at you time of need, time will heal your hearts.
Michele Snyder Macsi
September 22, 2010
So very sorry for your loss. Dr. McHugh was a lovely man.
Brian and Tina Siegel
September 22, 2010
Dear Mike and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We hope you can take solace in all of the memories and stories conveyed by the dozens of people whose lives your father touched. Our sincerest sympathies.
Shelly Cocivera Robinson
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
My deepest condolences go out to you at this time. Dr. McHugh was such an extraordinary man. Most students would fear to see the principal, but not Doc McHugh. It was always a pleasure to see his bright, caring smile in the halls of Allen High School and that he knew each and every student by name! May the good times, fond memories and God embrace you at this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
Shelly Cocivera Robinson
Wendy Mitchell-Young
September 22, 2010
I went to WAHS with Mr. McHugh's son, Joe. At our 25th reunion, Mr. McHugh showed up and spoke. What a great surprise! It was so good to see him again. His infectious enthusiasm had not waned a bit! He also was blessed with the ability to make everyone feel important.
To his family and friends, his legacy will live on in all the people who were touched by his indominitable spirit. My sincerest condolences.
Bob Cowdrick
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Dr. McHugh was a great educator and leader. You can be very proud of him!
Mike Boyer
September 22, 2010
Condolences to the entire McHugh Family. "Dr. Jack" was much beloved by all his WAHS Students and his AHS Classmates. He was my Principal and my Mother's Class of '49 President. He always stood up for his Students and we collectively mourn his passing. God's Blessings be with you all. Mike Boyer, WAHS Class of '75
Wendy (Souders) Nakhla
September 22, 2010
Dear Marion and Family,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I worked for Dr. McHugh in the 70's and early 80's, and there was never a more honest, fair and admired Principal of AHS. His passing is a great loss to education and county politics; but we know that God has welcomed him home with open arms. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dr. Eugene Koppenhaver
September 22, 2010
My deepest sympathies to the McHugh family. I was a classmate of Johns At AHS and beside being a genuinely nice guy, he gave everything he did a 110% effort. When I saw him over the years at reunions his warmth and real compassion for people was very evident.
Charles Bartholomew
September 22, 2010
I'm so glad that Gladys and I got to see you and Jack when we were in Allentown for the AHS Building dedication. The loyalty and support that was shown to my Dad and our family over the years has been greatly appreciated. The good memories that we have will last forever. Our deepest sympathy - Chuck and Gladys Bartholomew
Charlotte Weaver Kercsmar
September 22, 2010
My sympathies to Marion and family.
Marion as a Allentown High School classmate I have followed you and John these many years.I have always been impressed by the purpose,choices and successes in your life's adventure
I was so pleased to read John;s congratulation to our new Allentown School District Administrator 'I pray he will be inspired by your husband's legacy.
Sincerely'
Charlotte Weaver Kercsmar
Karen Christman
September 22, 2010
McHugh Family,
Sorry for your loss. Dr.McHugh touch the life of many young people. He's now up in heaven touch the lives of my friends.
Karen Christman
Susan Engelson-Friefeld
September 22, 2010
Dear McHugh family,
Dr. McHugh was an amazing man who touched my life all for the better while i was a student at William Allen. He had school spirit, an open mind and a very kind heart. I am still a proud Canary and always will be. He will be missed from Allentown and I hope that you can find comfort in all of us who loved and admired him. May God embrace Dr. McHugh and welcome him. With deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences. Susan Engelson-Friefeld, WAHS Class of 1977
Eloise Engelson
September 22, 2010
Dear Marion and Family,
I am saddened by Jack's passing and offer you my sincere condolences. From a professional standpoint working for Jack at WAHS was rewarding and the best years I worked for ASD. He was an inspiration, a leader and a consumate educator. I will always have a special place in my heart for him and his kind words at my 75th birthday party. He was a champion and a good friend. I am sorry for your loss.
Randy & Angela Eubanks
September 22, 2010
Mike,
We read your article on your Dad and now the obituary. He must have been an extraordinary man and your love for him is evident. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Patrice Wight
September 22, 2010
Dr McHugh was a terrific principal at Wm Allen HS. He was an unforgettable person who always had a smile & a positive attitude for the students. Deepest sympathy and prayers to the McHugh family. Wishing you a peaceful journey, Dr McHugh.
Patti Wanish Wight
Wm Allen HS '75
Sally Gordon
September 22, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the family. Dr. McHugh contributed so much to the Allentown School District. I'll never forget his days as principal of the Horne Elementary when he had a flag for every child in the school. His message to the students "...Horne is the best school!" He conveyed that spirit to the students of every school he served.
Richard and Kathy Parks
September 22, 2010
We were very saddened to hear of the passing of Jack. He was an outstanding citizen,a great educator and a personal friend. He was always interested in the welfare of others. He will be greatly missed.
Ted Wills
September 22, 2010
Dear Mrs. McHugh, Joe, Michael, and family, Dr. McHugh was one of the most important role models of my youth. Thanks to the idealism and self-confidence that he instilled in me, I was better prepared to face a very difficult series of health challenges in my adult life. I had greatly hoped to see him this fall on the occasion of our 35th class reunion. Yet I know that he is with me right now as he is with all my fellow classmates and all of his former and lifelong students cheering for the "Canary and Blue!"
Mike Moyer
September 22, 2010
I will always remember you as a kind, honest and caring man, who touched my life while at Allen H.S. You will be greatly missed by the city of Allentown and all the people whose lives you've touched. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Susan Schoenberger
September 22, 2010
Dr. McHugh,
You will be sorely missed. You have helped so many people in your life. You were there upon my return from the Persian Gulf War...You remembered me as a little girl from Roosevelt Elementry...I will never forget you Dr. McHugh...as you did not forget me. Have a peaceful journey.
Robin Betzler
September 22, 2010
I will never forget how wonderful and kind you were as a person and principal. You touched everyone in some way with your kindness. When I would pass you in the halls of Allen you always had this most incredible smile that I will never forget. I know that you are in heaven and it’s glowing with your wonderful smile. You will be missed and my God bless you. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Rick Heller
September 22, 2010
You were a man much admired during your lifetime, and now with your passing, much remembered for your passion of life, history, and the success of students, friends and all you touched with a smile, a hello, a listening ear. You've had an impact on my life, as a person, a father and as a human being. Thank you
Patty Barr
September 22, 2010
McHugh Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. McHugh was so kind to my family when we lost my brother and found time to comfort my family. He was a true kind sole. Your family is in my prayers thank you for sharing him with us.
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
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We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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