Hackettstown High Grad, Local Business Owner Dies at 85

The Lance family is as widely known in Long Valley as the curves on Schooley’s Mountain.

One of its eldest members, a longtime resident and local business owner, John “Jack” Lance, died recently at age 85.

Lance was born in Middle Valley in 1930 to Archibald and Cameilia Lance and lived in town until 2000.

During his time here, Lance was the owner of Jack Lance & Company for more than 50 years and served the public as a tax consultant and accounting specialist.

He served in the New Jersey National Guard from 1947 to 1968, obtaining rank of Captain, and was the former commander of the Hackettstown Armory when the facility was built.

Lance was also an active member of Highlands Presbyterian Church on Schooley’s Mountain, and a member of the USA Track & Field Masters Team, having participated in the World Games in South Africa where he won a silver medal in the 4x100 meter relay.

He also competed in the 100 meter sprints, 300 meter hurdles, long jump, and triple jump, having amassed more than 500 medals during his career.

Lance graduated Hackettstown High School in 1948, a decade before West Morris Central High School was built.

Lance is survived by two sons, a daughter, two grandchildren, and a great grandchild. He was predeceased by his wife, Carmen, in 2009.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, June 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. followed by a funeral service on Monday at 10 a.m. at Cochrane Funeral Home on High Street in Hackettstown.

Memorial donations may be made to Highlands Presbyterian Church, 12 Pleasant Grove Road, Long Valley, NJ 07853.

Pictured: John Lance. Photo Courtesy Cochrane Funeral Home.