John "Jack" Anthony Kreuz

Jack sadly passed away on April 3, 2023. He was born in Buffalo, N.Y., son of the late Peter Kreuz and Marion (Smith) Kreuz.

He earned a BS degree from Bonaventure University and a PhD degree in Organic chemistry from the University Notre Dame.    He began his career in 1959 with DuPont at the Experimental Station and later transferred to the Yerkes Lab in Buffalo.  In 1970 he went to Circleville, Ohio where he not only benefited the Kapton business but advanced the general field of polyimide technology.   He was a spokesman for DuPont and published fifteen papers and holds 14 U.S. patents.

In addition to his success as a technical innovator, Jack was a valued mentor of young scientists. He encouraged their interactions in scientific matters and explained complex technical issues with clarity.  He became a respected spokesman for DuPont.

DuPont named Jack as the 1994 recipient of the Pedersen award for his significant technical contributions in polyimide chemistry.  He was an internationally acclaimed expert in polyimide chemistry and a pioneer in the development of Kapton, an important component used in computers, mobile phones, and digital watches.

In 1998 Jack was named as a recipient of the Lavoisier Medal  for technical achievement as the catalyst behind many important Kapton polyimide film products and processes.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Frances Patricia Kreuz, and his children: John (Robin) Kreuz, Peter J. Kreuz, Joseph E. Kreuz, Catherine (Stanley) Sewall, Mary (James) Wagner, James (Angie) Kreuz, stepson Steven (Diane) Tilley and beloved grandchildren: Christopher (Alexandra) Kreuz, Sarah Kreuz, Alec Sewall, Christian Sewall, Madeleine Sewall, Eric Wagner, Michael Wagner, Nathaniel Kreuz, Nicholas Kreuz, Victoria (Zach) Dennis, Bryan Tilley and great grandchildren, Collins Kreuz and Adrian Dennis.  Jack was predeceased by his first wife Joan M. Kreuz and grandson Benjamin Tilley.

Jack was a tenacious player on the tennis courts, which served as another outlet for his competitive drive.   He rode his bicycle and remembered the good old days when there was less traffic on the roads.   He also skied and played golf occasionally.   He enjoyed travelling and experiencing new places and cultures.  He was proud of the successes and career choices of his grandchildren and enjoyed their visits to him and the help they gave.   He was always active in the house and garden, and he was a perfectionist in house projects and improvements.

The visitation will be held at Egan-Ryan Northwest Chapel, 4661 Kenny Rd. on Friday, April 21 from 4 pm to 7 pm. The funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 22 at 10.30 am in the Chapel at Resurrection Cemetery, 9571 N. High St. Donations in Jack’s name may be sent to St. Bonaventure University, 3261 W. State Rd., St Bonaventure,14778  N.Y.

Jack was a devout Catholic, a good father and grandfather, a much loved husband and he will be sorely missed.

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