Dansville Bids Farewell to Golf Legend Jack Biddle

DANSVILLE – Dansville lost a legendary golfer and Korean War veteran in John ‘Jack’ Biddle on Wednesday.

The following is an obituary written by his son, Kip:

John A. Biddle, 84, passed away in his home in Dansville, NY on Thursday, March 16, 2016.

Born on July 16, 1931 in Hornell, to Dorothy (Hunt) and Arthur Biddle of Cohocton. ‘Jack’ was an accomplished baseball player at Wayland Central School where he graduated in the Class of 1949. He enlisted in the United States Army following graduation and served in the Korean Conflict, achieving the rank of Corporal and earning numerous citations until his honorable discharge in 1952.

Upon returning home, Jack became an apprentice compositor at FA Owen Publishing Co in Dansville where he made a 40-year career as a printing journeyman. It was at this place, he was introduced to the worst four-letter word his family ever heard: golf.

Jack lived and breathed the game of golf, playing daily at Brae Burn Recreation, becoming club champion and president of Brae Burn’s Mens Golf Association. Many a bent club have adorned the pine trees of Brae Burn throughout the years. He was also a member of many social clubs in the Dansville area including the Protectives Company of the Dansville Fire Department.

Married twice, first to Jera Lee McConnell of Meadville, PA and then Penny L. O’Dell (deceased) of Avoca, NY, Jack is father to 5 boys: Craig (deceased), Jeffrey, Kip, Scott and Shawn. He is also grandfather to Mackenzee, Kaleigh, Aaron and Adam. Predeceased by his sister Patricia (Biddle) Drum of Elmira, he lived a full life and will be missed greatly.

At his request, no calling hours or services will take place, but a gathering of family and friends will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 at the Daniel Goho American Legion in Dansville.