Birth date: Nov 9, 1943 Death date: May 29, 2024
John (Jack) Clemons, 80, died Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at his home in Lewes after a tough battle with Alzheimers. He was born in Harrisburg, PA to John and Kathryn (Suity) Clemons. He spent his early years in York, PA and Dania, F Read Obituary
With all the fond memories I have of Jack, here's one that particularly stands out: One time at Balticon he was so enthusiastic about my formative thoughts on writing an alternate history of the Apollo space program. I did so grateful for yet more of his insights as to the details. Then I wrote a sequel, which is nominated for the Sidewise Award for alternate history. I only wish I could have shared this happy news with Jack and seen his fabulous smile again. My deepest sympathies, Denise.
I was truly surprised to see this news; Jack and I are the same age. He was like no other leader that i have ever worked with. He was my mentor and always set an example to follow. I always enjoyed how he coached young engineers to find a solution themselves, even when Jack knew the answer. Me made us all better people just knowing him.
I was fortunate to work with Jack for several years. His leadership abilities and personal character inspired many young (and not so young) individuals to follow his approach to work and life! He was one of the best!
I regret not being able to spend more time with him - my loss!
My condolences to his family!
Balticon 58 was just held Memorial Day weekend. Jack was a kind, knowledgeable and articulate Space historian, who held the room, while presenting in the Science Track. May his memory be a blessing
Denise, Paul, Dave, and family I am terribly sad to hear about the loss of Jack. When they say one person can change a life, he was that one person for me. Out of all the students at Morgan State University School of Engineering, he saw something in me. When Lockheed Martin recruiters kindly passed over me, he gave me an opportunity. Then he proceeded to become my mentor, sounding board, and leader that I aspired to be. Jack had faith in me when no one else did. Who else would put a new college hire on a must win $2.5B proposal???
Admittedly I was rough around the edges and needed some guidance and training, he ensured I got it and never gave up on me. He exposed me to new technologies, ideas, philosophies, authors, genres. As the years went by, I viewed him more like a father figure. Even after his rettirement I could still reach out to him. To this day, I still take a pause and ask myself W.W.J.S. (What Would Jack Say), when in a demanding situation. It took me a while to write this because I didn't know all the right words to express my gratitude for having the blessing of Jack in my life.
With Deepest Condolences,
Aknesha Miller
