John Wett, Jr.

John Frederick Wett, Jr., known to all as Jack, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 18, 2017. His beloved wife and best friend, Elizabeth (Betty), and oldest daughter, Ruth, preceded him.

Jack was born in Baltimore on November 20, 1931 to John F. and Ruth Wett. The first in his family to go to college, he earned his degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Maryland and remained a Terrapin fan throughout his life.  While in the Airforce, he went on to earn an advanced degree in nuclear engineering and then later an MBA.  He was brilliant and proud to be a nuclear engineer, but equally as proud to be a kind and patient husband, father, grandfather, and mentor.

Jack and Betty traveled the world together and the United States with their children as his career developed, living in eight states and working with fellow engineers in Russia and Japan before retiring to his favorite eastern shore and then moving to Frederick.  Jack loved cultural exchange, enhanced by his refined understanding of world history, humor, classical books and music, mentoring colleagues, Betty’s gourmet cooking, sports, and well-made martinis and hats.  Jack and Betty were also strong advocates in the 1960s for desegregation and throughout life for women’s rights.

He is survived by his daughters and best friends, Cecilia Wett, of Germantown, MD, Ann Odehnal and husband, David, of Richmond, VA, and Eve Coconis and husband, Michael of Middletown, MD, his grandchildren Elizabeth Cameron, John and Alexandra Coconis and Nicholas and Patrick Odehnal.  Jack is also survived by his sister, Kay Reuschling and brother-in-law Walt, sister-in-law, Jan Delsasso, and their families.  Jack’s daughters extend special thanks to his niece, Karen Griesmyer and husband Robert for their love and support.

The family thanks the staff at Homewood for their constant care over the last four years.  We are very grateful for their kindness.  Also special thanks to the 3A staff at FMH who made Jack smile during his difficult transition.

A family gathering will be held at a later date to remember Jack in a way that would make him happy.  Honor him by reading a history book, enjoying the company of those you love or contributing to your favorite charity in his name.