John "Jack" Meinhart

John "Jack" Meinhart, 80, of Whitehall, PA passed away on February 18, 2026. He was born in Bethlehem to the late Guerney A. Meinhart and Marguerite (Wilhelm) Meinhart. Jack was a proud graduate of Liberty High School, Class of 1964. Soon after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army and serving honorably during the Vietnam War. He carried that experience with quiet pride throughout his life.

After returning home, Jack built a career as a production mechanic with Durkee Foods and later Fisher Clinical Services. He was the kind of man who could fix just about anything, and if something was broken, you could count on Jack to make it right. His hands were rarely still, and his work was steady and dependable.

An avid outdoorsman, Jack found great joy in hunting and fishing. He was also an accomplished athlete who embraced endurance sports with determination and enthusiasm. He competed in triathlons and completed the Marine Corps Marathon, Honolulu Marathon, and Philadelphia Marathon, among others-achievements that reflected his discipline, perseverance, and adventurous spirit.

Above all, Jack cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Arlene(Feher) Ziegler Meinhart; his daughters, Michelle Slotter (Eric), Kariann Hassall (Jeff), and Jena Thornton (Shannon); his stepsons, Bradley Ziegler and Jeffrey Ziegler (Katrina); 10 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Donald Meinhart; his sister, Patricia Meinhart; and his beloved grandson, Andrew Hassall.

Jack will be remembered for his strength, dedication, and love of family. His legacy of service, resilience, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved him. His was a life well lived, measured not only in miles run or years worked, but in the family, he loved and the example he set. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

A viewing will be held from 6-8pm Wednesday February 25, 2026, at the Connell Funeral Home 245 E. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018 followed by as service at 8pm. The burial will be held at 11am Friday February 27, 2026, at Bethlehem Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association 7272 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75231 or to the Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758516 Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.