From Bob McIntyre, February 11:

Herman; please forward to Candi.

I am deeply saddened by the news of John’s passing. He was much too young and had much yet to share with his friends and associates. For myself, I have made a career out of his intellectual achievements. I began work at Sloan in 1974 assembling vacuum systems and working with Phil Bosch and Jack Dimmock on John’s products. In 1982, I became the production manager for the Dektak assembly and test area, and continue that task to this day (in Tucson). John’s Dektak has made a profound impact on the lives of many millions of people who enjoy the products that come from thin film research. The Dektak is just as viable today as it was 40 years ago when John showed the world a new horizon in thin film measurement.

I know my life has been a better one for having known John. May he rest in peace.

Bob McIntyre
Dektak Production Manager
Veeco Instruments
Tucson, AZ

From Jack Eddy (sent to Candi), February 10:

Candi,

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of John this morning. I did not know he was fighting cancer.

Working with John over the 12 years with Sloan in the 60's and 70's was a privilege - He was indeed a 
gentleman and a creative individual.

I still maintain the Buddha that the two of you gave me in 1965.

My condolences and best wishes,

Jack

From Ed Jentón (sent to Candi), February 9:

Dear Candi,

My condolences on your loss. 

I'll always remember John for his dedication to everyone at Sloan, his great engineering achievements (the Dektaks are still everywhere in use) and his fun outlook on life.

But most recently, my thanks to both you and John for being such selfless & tireless hosts for the Sloaner Reunions. 

I will not be able to make the services for John as I'm still in San Diego.

I hope you are doing well, considering the circumstances.

Ed Jettón
ejetton1@sbcglobal.net

From Bob Kuster, February 9:

Herman, 

Thanks. I will miss him. He always gave me support and assistance. 

Bob Kuster 
Sales Manager Europe, North America
KAYEX, AN SPX BRAND

From Karl-Heinz Maurer (sent to Candi), February 9:

Dear Candi,

I'm shocked, I'm feeling empty and don't know what to say.

I've lost a very good friend who despite the distance always was very close to me. John was my hero, my tutor, my mentor, my University professor.... 
I always admired him, he knew everything and he could do everything. He was the one who gave me the base for my success in PVD/Thin Films.

Very often I got to talk about him, when customers asked me how and where I've accumulated my extensive knowledge in this field, one way or the other the talking always ended with Sloan and especially with John, my hero. 

And it will stay this way, I will keep talking about him, he never will be forgotten!!!

Candi, my feelings are with you.

From Rich C, on the Ferrari Forum, February 6:

RIP. The best lesson he taught was how he lived his life.