John David Dortch (Jack)

John David Dortch (Jack) went to his eternal rest on March 2, 2024, following a hard-fought battle with pulmonary fibrosis at his home in Chambersburg, PA. Born June 9, 1939, to James and Gladys Dortch in Klamath Falls, Oregon, Jack formed lifelong connections with classmates from Parkrose High School (Portland, OR) and Oregon State University. Always a planner, Jack led the original card stunts in Reeser Stadium and was the mascot, Benny Beaver, at numerous sporting events. He made lifetime friends within his fraternity, Delta Tau Delta. He graduated Class of 1962 at Oregon State University. ROTC formed his primary occupation as a US Army Infantry Officer. He proudly and profoundly served his country, with two tours in Vietnam, many moves across America, and found his favorite posting in Germany. Jack was awarded the Silver Star with Oakleaf Cluster and two Purple Hearts. He received additional recognition from the Pentagon Joint Chiefs, the Department of State, and the Old Guard. Jack retired from the United States Army and entered the private sector in 1984 and applied his skills to Wells Fargo Alarm Services in New Jersey, New York City, and southern California. His expertise in negotiation and business leadership tactics were utilized to great effect as he managed labor negotiations, equipment installations, and long-distance commuting. Always a great teammate, Jack found camaraderie and purpose in Rotary International during retirement. Jack was an active member in Ludlow, Vermont; Ludlow, England; and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. He enjoyed the OKEMO Mountain timed bicycle race, the Franklin County Cyclists, winter boot collections, walkathons, international student exchanges, Chicken N Stuff dinners, and tree planting. Jack contributed passionately to the Rotary exchange in Brazil, Tsunami Relief, coordination for delivery of an ambulance to Indonesia, and the Rubber Duck Race. As a husband, father, and grandfather, Jack was devoted. There was never a practice too early, a trip too far or an errand too many. He was always ready with a drink, Chapstick, and snacks. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Katherine Ann Primrose Dortch; daughter Katherine Marie Dortch McCorry (husband Tom); son John Patrick Dortch (wife Laurel); sister Roberta Jones; three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Jack's family will be holding a Memorial Service at 10:30 AM on April 5, 2024, at: Trinity Episcopal Church, 58 S 2nd Street, Chambersburg, PA. Graveside services will be held with military honors at 10:30 AM on May 3, 2024, at: Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rotary International or Army Emergency Relief. Condolences may be expressed at www.sellersfuneralhome.com.

John David Dortch (Jack)

June 9, 1939 - March 2, 2024