John Milton Ranck ’32

AFTER A LONG BOUT with cancer, Johnny Ranck died Aug.2, 1992, at his home in Strasburg, Penn., thus ending a distinguished career as a lawyer, prosecutor, Republican political leader, and public citizen.

After obtaining his law degree from the Univ. of Pennsylvania in 1935, Johnny began the practice of law in Lancaster, where he spent his entire professional career, He served as Lancaster County district attorney from 1948 to 1952. He was president of the Lancaster Bar Assn. in 1984, and held a number of other bar association posts over the years.

Starting early as a Republican committeeman in Strasburg Borough, he worked for more than half a century on behalf of the party and was a strong voice for its conservative wing, being one of the early supporters of Sen. Barry Goldwater for the 1964 Presidential nomination. A persona I friendship with George and Barbara Bush, beginning when the Rancks hosted a reception for George at their home in Strasburg, continued through John's final illness.

Having been a track man in college, Johnny remained an accomplished amateur athlete for much of his life, particularly in tennis, golf, and squash. He was engaged in numerous civic activities, including membership on the board of directors of Lancaster General Hospital. He was also V.P. and secretary of the Princeton Alumni Association of Lancaster.

On Oct. 5, 1938, Johnny married Jean Howle of Torquay, Devonshire, England, who with him raised sons John C., Michael H. Geoffrey H., and David A., who, in turn, have raised four grandchildren and three stepgrandchildren. To all of them the Class extends its deep sympathy. We are proud that this eminent and genial gentleman was one of us.

The Class of 1932