Geoffrey (Jeff) Conklin Mealand, 96, passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2023.
He was born in Cleveland, OH, to Arthur and Agnes Mealand, spending his formative years in Ohio along with his sister, Ruth.
At the age of 18, during WWII, Jeff enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for over a year and then was demobilized at the end of the war. He then moved on to graduate from Amherst College with Bachelor’s (’50) and Master’s (’52) degrees. It was there he met his future wife, Sylvia, through her brother, Dr. Robert Hatch, who was a fraternity brother at Chi Phi.
With his college background and early job experience specializing in the sciences, Jeff began a long career in research administration with a Philadelphia, PA corporation (now GlaxoSmithKline). Initially, he aided in the development of new pharmaceuticals, working with scientists of many disciplines. Later, he joined the company’s new animal health operation, where he managed the administrative functions at their large research facility near West Chester, PA.
Retiring to New England, Jeff delved into genealogy to explore family histories – he and his wife, Sylvia, visiting many libraries and genealogy societies in the northeast. He also followed the fortunes of New England sports teams. A move was made back to Pennsylvania to relocate closer to two of their four children. A lover of music, Jeff sang in church choirs wherever they lived and in a men’s quartet aptly called “The Eldertones.”
His retirement also included lots of travel with Sylvia. They enjoyed touring other countries, as well as visiting with their many extended family members. Time spent with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was always a priority. Vacations at Newfound Lake in New Hampshire left many special memories for the family.
His last years were spent with his wife in various residences of the Cornwall Manor Retirement Community. The Cornwall Manor staff and Hospice for All Seasons provided support.
Jeff is survived by his wife of 72 years, Sylvia (Syb) Hatch Mealand, along with their four children, Patricia M. Schreibeis, and husband, John, of Lancaster, PA, Philip J. Mealand, and wife, Andrekita Silva, of Seattle, WA, Barbara A. Mealand, of Burlington, VT, and Robert A. Mealand, and wife, Kathleen, of Birdsboro, PA. Jeff also leaves seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
A small family graveside service will be held at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, where his ashes will be buried.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support veterans through the “PA Wounded Warriors, Inc.” at 1013 Mumma Road, Suite 203, Wormleysburg, PA 17043.
