John P. Rice '75

[Rod McLaughlin]

For 48 years my life has been made richer, happier, and more fulfilled as a result of knowing and loving the students and graduates of MHS. I’ve been amazed and inspired by the qualities and strengths of the vast majority of the students – both those who graduated and those who didn’t quite make it.

From all these outstanding MHS students, my heart now aches that one of the best, kindest, and most dedicated to making MHS all it can be, is no longer with us. All who knew John Rice are sure that he is now seated close to the Lord. However, we will miss his quick smile, sage counsel, loving manner, and courageous support of his beliefs. John was motivated solely by what he was sure Mr. and Mrs. Hershey wanted for and from their School. No amount of criticism or intimidation could sway his dedication to what he felt was right. John, as you look down on us from a better place, know that your contributions will be forever remembered, appreciated, and admired!

Rod McLaughlin
Honorary Alumnus

[SoupCan]

Originally Posted by Dan Rice

I want to thank all who posted condolences and such kind words about John. As I read through the posts I am move to tears by the all of the warm sentiments and remembrances. We are still in shock and trying to come to grips with the passing of a man in his prime. I take some measure of comfort from the impact that John had on the MHSAA community and all of you who worked so closely with him over these past years. I know that John viewed his role, in the struggle to effect fundamental change at MHS as a solemn duty, and he viewed his association with those people that he worked with as a privilege.

I have shared the posts with my sister and John’s family and they are very appreciative of the feelings of loss, grief, friendship and respect for John.
I will miss him!

Dan Rice ‘72

Thank you for expressing yourself to all about your brother Dan. He really looked up to you with great respect and as a big brother mentor.

The privilege was ours in working with JR for a whole host of reasons. He was so smart and in a fundamental, common sense, logical way and his ability to communicate was quite effective with both the academicians and VG kind of home boys/girls.

Though his loss is irreplaceable we will be even more committed in our efforts to restore the true mission of our benefactor...and, because JR would have done the same.

It's so sad that he's gone yet know it was such an honor to have been his friend.

[SoupCan]

Originally Posted by Rod McLaughlin

For 48 years my life has been made richer, happier, and more fulfilled as a result of knowing and loving the students and graduates of MHS. I’ve been amazed and inspired by the qualities and strengths of the vast majority of the students – both those who graduated and those who didn’t quite make it.

From all these outstanding MHS students, my heart now aches that one of the best, kindest, and most dedicated to making MHS all it can be, is no longer with us. All who knew John Rice are sure that he is now seated close to the Lord. However, we will miss his quick smile, sage counsel, loving manner, and courageous support of his beliefs. John was motivated solely by what he was sure Mr. and Mrs. Hershey wanted for and from their School. No amount of criticism or intimidation could sway his dedication to what he felt was right. John, as you look down on us from a better place, know that your contributions will be forever remembered, appreciated, and admired!

Rod McLaughlin
Honorary Alumnus

Thanks so much for your message Rod. Many of us know you all so well and appreciate all that you did for us during our days before...and after we were at MHS.

JR and I had talked about you on several occasions and he admired you very much.

Of all the Honorary Alumni...you are the best. I have no doubt JR would agree.

God Bless you Rod...

S. Lee Strayer '68

[Edgewoodboy]

Dan Rice,
I am so sorry for the loss of John. I forgot that you two where brothers.
Oliver S. Ewing 72'

[BoonieReturns]

I am curious how the school honors the fallen? I know they wouldn't do a 21 gun salute but is there any tradition MHS does for alumni who pass? I think it would be fitting that MHS helps people get started in life and then honors the life it contributed so much to.

This forum seems to be more about death notices recently and it had me wondering. Mr Rice was only 12 years older than me so it also reminds me of my mortality.

[Mel Horn]

IIRC they are mentioned at the Homecoming Sunday graveside service.

Quite frankly I would not expect anyone from the current Board of Managers, MHS Administration or from the "Clubhouse" to acknowledge John's passing.

And maybe somebody may prove me wrong.

[Smitty52]

It would be fitting for John's passing to be remembered at the meeting on Monday. However I doubt that it will be.


Don Smith HIS/MHS '52

[Edgewoodboy]

Originally Posted by Smitty52

It would be fitting for John's passing to be remembered at the meeting on Monday. However I doubt that it will be.


Don Smith HIS/MHS '52

Pastor Don,
Unfortunately, you were correct. How sad. These self serving unrighteous individuals will rot in hell for their misdeeds and underhanded dealings in the past and those which will come in the future.

[Edgewoodboy]

A Successful Person

"That person is a success who
has lived well,
laughed often
and loved much...
who has gained the
respect of intelligent
people and the love
of little children...
who has filled a unique
niche in life
and accomplished his tasks...
a person who never lacked
deep appreciation
of this world or failed
to express it...
a person who always looked
for the best in
others and gave the best he
had for others..."

[wmottin74]

Originally Posted by Smitty52

It would be fitting for John's passing to be remembered at the meeting on Monday. However I doubt that it will be.


Don Smith HIS/MHS '52

Glenn Alexander '67 did bring up the passing of John at the board meeting Sunday, and also the passing of Bob Chalmers wife. Glenn mentioned that he only heard of John's passing recently, and gave his regrets to the Philly chapter and for us to pass on to John's family. John Hanawalt mentioned that $100 donation was sent to Fox Chase Cancer center in John's name.