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John J. Vill of Lake Ariel died Sunday evening in Geisinger CMC following a valiant battle with lung cancer. He was 80 years old.

Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he was the son of the late Charles and Julia Vill. John attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City, NJ, and then completed undergraduate and graduate studies at Rutger’s University, receiving a PhD in Organic Chemistry.  He had a long and distinguished career as a chemist, working first at the Hatco Chemical division of W. R. Grace in Maryland, and then Ganes Chemicals, Inc in Carlstadt, NJ, where he served as Plant Manager and was awarded several patents for pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

John loved to play cards, was a life-long fisherman, and an avid reader. He could build or repair almost anything, and served as his entire extended family’s handyman. He was admired for his generosity and willingness to listen, without judgement, to anyone’s problems or questions. And, like any good Irishman, John didn’t need the excuse of a holiday to celebrate and enjoy his family…his door was always open to any and all who wanted to visit.

Surviving are his daughters, Cindy Collins and her husband Tim of Mine Hill, NJ and Karen Cooper and her husband Evan of Lebanon, PA; sisters Betty Carroll of Morris Plains, NJ, Judy Ryan and her husband Jack of Denville, NJ and Kathy Rosikiewicz and her husband Al of Lewes, DE; grandchildren Austin and Christian Waters, Evan Locker, and Nicole Collins; great-grandchildren Aviana and Sophia Waters, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his long-time companion Patricia Lomelo.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 22 at 11:00 am in the James Wilson Funeral Home, 143 Gravity Rd., Lake Ariel, PA. A gathering for friends and family will be held immediately afterward at one of his favorite restaurants, John’s Italian Restaurant, in Hamlin, PA.

Friends may call Wednesday from 10am until time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ledgedale Volunteer Fire Company, 529 Goosepond Rd, Lake Ariel, PA. 18436, whom John happily supported for many years.

For directions, to share a memory, or leave condolences for the family please visit www.jameswilsonfuneralhome.com.