John J. McGuinn

McGUINNBorn May 23, 1921, in his grandparents’ home, John J. McGuinn, former president of McGuinn & Lawley, and a director of Blue Shield, passed away peacefully at 96 years of age.He resided with his beloved wife of 65 years, Helene “Patsy” (nee Boffa) in West Chester, PA. He previously lived in Wyndmoor, PA. John was the devoted father of Helene (Roger) Susanin, Dr. William J. McGuinn (Tammy), Catherine (Daniel) MacFarland, Patricia McGuinn (Thomas Ringe), and Elizabeth Anne (John) Christen. He will be greatly missed by his fourteen grandchildren and their spouses, and by his two great-grandchildren . He is survived by his loving siblings William J. McGuinn and Patricia McGuinn Grant, and by many nieces, nephews, and other family members.John grew up in Philadelphia, the eldest of eight children, during the Great Depression. He often credited his parents, Catherine (nee Mclauglin) and William J. Mc Guinn, for his religious faith, his love of family and country, and his strong work ethic. He graduated from Corpus Christi Catholic School and Roman Catholic High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1942. He served for the entire duration of our country’s involvement in World War II. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge, entered Germany as an engineer in Patton’s Army, and participated in the liberation of the concentration camps.After returning home, John graduated from St. Joseph’s University in 1949. His mathematical skills and business acumen led him to become an actuary in the then-fledgling pension industry. He founded and led some of Philadelphia’s first employee-benefit firms, including Miller, Mason & Dickenson and McGuinn & Lawley. He was respected as a leader and innovator in providing retirement benefits for our nation’s working people. He served for many years on the Board of Directors of Blue Shield.John was an avid golfer, a member of Hershey’s Mill Country Club, and a golden member of Whitemarsh Valley Country Club. Proud of his Irish heritage, he was a member of the sons of St. Patrick and an expert on the history of On the history of Irish-American who fought in the War between the States.Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation on Tuesday, April 3rd, 9:15 to 10:15 followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 1325 Boot Rd., West Chester, PA 19380. Inurnment Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory to St. Joseph University, 5600 City Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19131 would be appreciated