John Richards Soars

John Richard “Dick” Soars, 84, of Naples, FL and Eagles Mere, PA passed away on January 2, 2016.

Born and raised in Muncy, PA, Dick was the son of the late Deac and Grace Soars. A graduate of Mercersburg (PA) Academy and Cornell (NY) University, he served in the U.S. Army before beginning his career in the pulp and feed mill manufacturing business.

He spent the bulk of his career working for the family business as vice president of advertising and marketing for Sprout Waldron & Co. in Muncy before retiring in 1977. A tennis player in his earlier years and an avid golfer throughout his life, the only thing he enjoyed more than a game of golf at Eagles Mere Country Club or sitting on his deck overlooking Eagles Mere Lake, was his family. He rarely missed a game, activity or outing in which his children or grandchildren were participating.

Dick is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jean McMahon Soars, his children: Robyn (Jim) Bonaquist of Naples, Blair (Jean Anne) Soars of Williamsport, PA; Rod (Trish) Soars of Naples and Valerie (Jose) Hernandez, also of Naples. He leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Alyssa, Jay, JR, Brianna, Deac, Lane, Cassaundra, Alonna, Julia, Caroline, Kaidin and Dane. He was preceded in death by his eldest brother, Marshall, but is survived by his older brother Lew (Flip) Soars of Melbourne, FL, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held this summer in Eagles Mere. Donations can be made in his name to the Soars Family Scholarship Fund at Mercersburg Academy, 300 East Seminary St. Mercersburg, PA 17236.