John J. "Jack" Novotny, 78, of New London, Ohio, died on December 19, 2019 at Stein Hospice in Sandusky, Ohio.  Jack was born on May 23, 1941 in Westmoreland County, PA.  He was the son of the late John A. and Elizabeth Novotny.

He grew up in Norvelt, PA and was a 1959 graduate of Hurst High School.  He went on to Penn State where he obtained his Bachelor's degree and then his MBA from the University of Delaware.  Jack started his career in Boston, MA as a Chemical Engineer.  While his children were being raised he lived in Wilmington, DE and opened his own fire suppressant business.  In the early 1980's, he moved to Ashland, Ohio, where he met his wife, Treva.  He retired to Florida and spent many years adventuring in the Florida sunshine.  He returned to New London, where he enjoyed spending time with his family.

Jack had an adventurous spirit, going on many family outings in his RV, as well as his motorcycle, planes and boats.  He loved fishing, diving, and going to the beach.  He was a U.S. Merchant Marine Officer (Master 100 tons), and FAA Pilot (Multi-engine instrument rating), a member of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, and a Licensed Radio Amateur (K3CEW).

Jack is survived by his wife, Treva L. Novotny, whom he married June 6, 1986.  Children, Diane Simmons, Sandra (David) Rickel; step-children, Tina (James) DeLambo, Thomas (Rebecca) Reed; grandchildren, Nicole (Sam) Davidson, Emily Rickel; step-grandchildren, Eric (Nikki Enix) Simmons, Kyle (Becca) Simmons, Cory Simmons, Anthony DeLambo, Amanda DeLambo, Christopher Reed, Cole (Haley) Reed, Trevor Reed, Aaron Reed, Austin Reed, 10 great-grandchildren and a brother, James (Theresa) Novotny, Sr.  In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his son in law Matthew Simmons.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 23, 2019 from 12 until 2 p.m. where the funeral service will begin at 2 p.m., Eastman Funeral Home, 200 West Main Street, New London, Ohio 44851. Expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.