John C. Hess ’71

After a courageous 10-year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), Jack died April 11, 2016.

Jack came to Princeton from Ridley Park, Pa., where he was an exceptional athlete. He starred in basketball and football, and was recruited by Big 10 schools. He roomed with Liddell and Swanson sophomore year in Holder. Jack started on the varsity football team for two seasons, majored in politics, and ate at Cottage. After Princeton, he graduated from Temple Law School.

Jack worked in financial planning in Florida from 1989 to 2011, yet he always cited his 11 years of seasonal lifeguarding at Cape May, N.J., as his ideal job. Jack married Pat in 1976. His life centered around Pat and their children. He was a regular presence on campus. His many commentaries on sports, life, and the world were presented with conviction, yet a sense of humor.

With Pat’s steadfast support, Jack took on ALS, raising awareness and funding for research. His death elicited an outpouring of tributes from classmates and teammates, remembering his personality and many talents. The class offers its deep sympathies to Pat; his children Jon, Jennifer, Paul ’05, and Alison ’08; his brother, Wally h’71; his grandchildren; and other family and friends.