Joseph John Hydock

January 4, 2010

Joseph John Hydock, 91, of Garden Grove, Calif., died January 4, 2010, with his daughter at his side. He was born in Plains Township and graduated from Plains High School in 1936, and Scranton University in 1940, with honors. Before enlisting in the Armed Forces, he was employed as a research chemist. He received his wings as a navigator in 1944 and was an Air Force Lieutenant in World War II. He married the love of his life, the late Reda McHenry, in 1945. They first lived in Indiana, where Joseph received his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Notre Dame in 1950, then moved to California in 1954. Joseph worked as a research chemist, specializing in the aerospace industry in Washington, D.C., Illinois, and California before retiring. Joseph was a man of great scholastic achievement, but had a rare humble nature. Beloved for his peaceful outlook on life, and kind and caring heart, Joseph often drove to Baja, California, delivering clothing to the poor. He also helped feed the poor at his local church. He loved the ocean, wild flowers, fresh organic pineapple and the singing birds on his massive bottle brush tree in his backyard. Joseph is survived by four children; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two sisters. Memorial services at the University of Notre Dame and St. Columban Church will be held in the spring.