He grew up in New York City, coming to Princeton from Collegiate School, and earned his bachelor’s degree in politics in 1938. At Princeton he was a member of Dial Lodge and was on the staff of The Daily Princetonian and the Tiger.
Jack began his career marketing a trade paper and then entered the survey and research business with Opinion Research Corp. in 1940. He set up his own shop in 1950, commuting to New York from Princeton for 35 years. He authored several books and articles on opinion research. Known for his keen sense of humor, he wrote a book titled The Laugh’s On You.
Jack’s two great loves were his family — consisting of his wife, Barbara, and three children — and Princeton. He attended every home football and basketball game from the 1940s until his health failed in 2008. His greatest contribution to ’38 was as Reunions chairman for more than 60 consecutive years.
Predeceased by Barbara, Jack is survived by his children, John (“Jib”) W. Platten ’63, Judith Sharp, and Robert S.V. Platten; a younger brother, Peter Platten ’43; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. To them, ’38 offers heartfelt condolences.