John Burton Arnaiz

John Burton Arnaiz, 83 of South Abington Township died Saturday, March 2nd at Regional Hospital of Scranton, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his wife Joan Ellen McDonald Arnaiz. The couple has been married for over 54 years.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Burton and Laurenna Shoemaker Arnaiz. He attended college at Drexel University and Lehigh University where he was a member of the Alpha Phi Lambda fraternity. He was a registered professional engineer with two patents to his credit. He started his career as an aerodynamic analyst with General Electric for over 20 years in the space and missile division. While employed by GE, he was instrumental in designing the missile heads for the original US civil defense system during the Cold War. He retired from The Gentex Corporation in 1998 after 17 years of service, during which he designed and developed the OMNI helmets that are still in use by the US military.

John was an avid golfer and enjoyed Sudoku, billiards, playing poker, bowling and fishing.

Despite all of his professional accomplishments he was most proud of taking care of his family and will be greatly missed by all.

Also surviving are a son Mark Arnaiz; three daughters Karen Goodling, Susan Runner and husband Eric, and Lisa Heimbach and husband Robert, seven grandchildren Joel, Shawn, and Leah Goodling, Kaitlyn and Rachel Runner, and Cara and Marissa DiCostanzo, a brother Alan Arnaiz and wife Nancy, and a sister Elma Lindfors and husband Maurice.

He was preceded in death by a brother David Arnaiz.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Red Cross, Po Box 4002018 Des Moines IA. 50340.

Funeral Service and Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home & Cremation Svc.