Celebrated Aeronautical Engineer Lauded Far and Wide

John G Roncz, 75, passed away peacefully on 27 September 2023 amidst family and close friends.

Mr. Roncz was the son of the late P. John and Catherine Roncz, and was preceded in death by his sisters Diane Schlifke and Janet Sanders, as well as his nephew Jason Roncz.

John is survived by his sister Maribeth Roncz, nieces Rachel Beittenmiller and Allyson Smith, great nephews Michael Roncz and Seth Beittenmiller, and great-nieces Reeann Beck, Ryn Beittenmiller and Emma Smith. Family-members will miss his wit, his many talents, and above all, his love.

Mr. Roncz was an honors graduate of the University of Notre Dame. His analytical mind and innovative thinking were instrumental in his aeronautical engineering career, during which Roncz made significant contributions to the field of aerodynamics, and contributed to the designs of upwards of fifty aircraft—to include the Rutan Voyager and the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, both enshrined in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum.

Over his career, Roncz was honored with numerous awards recognizing his design work. In 2000 he was honored in London by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, and was presented with the Prince’s Australian Medal for the design of the Eagle Aircraft. John served, also, as a Distinguished Lecturer for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, on behalf of which he guest-lectured at no fewer than eight universities. Preeminent engineering school Purdue University bestowed the honor of Old Master upon Roncz.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Roncz’s analytical nature influenced his spiritual beliefs, compelling him to author An Engineer's Guide to the Spirit World. Roncz, by dint of his innovative thinking, sought in perpetuity to understand the world and its endless wonders, while his character imbued him with the strength and conviction to face life’s myriad challenges.

A devoted member of South Bend, Indiana’s Sinai Synagogue, Mr. Roncz was active in the Jewish community, and participated in readings of the Torah.

John Roncz’s passing is a profound loss; his memory will forever live in the hearts of his family and friends.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Roncz may be donated to the aforementioned Sinai Synagogue.

FMI: www.sinaisynagogue.org