John L. Wineland

John L. Wineland, of Jenkintown, PA, passed away peacefully at 85 on August 22, 2025.

Born in Altoona, PA, on December 18, 1939, he was the son of Dr. J. Lester and Phyllis (Mingle) Wineland. John married Dr. Paula A. Bononi in 1984. He is survived by his wife Paula; his son Nathaniel “Nate” J. (Audrey Metzger Bailey) of Charlotte, NC; grandson Remy C. Wineland; sister Elaine W. Kantner (the late Richard) of Brevard, NC; and brother Philip B. Wineland (Janet Naden) of Sioux City, Iowa, along with nine nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews.

John graduated from Altoona High School and earned degrees from Wheaton College, Northern Illinois University, and Temple University, where he pursued a PhD in American history, completing coursework and exams.

He began his career as an assistant professor of history education at Northern Illinois University. In 1967, he co-headed a federally funded project to integrate Black History into standard curricula, alongside colleagues in the Psychology Department, and also directed Project Upward Bound. In 1969, he ran for State Representative of Illinois as a Democrat.

John moved to Philadelphia in 1969 to continue studying history and became active in community life, serving as treasurer for West Mt. Airy Neighbors and Mt. Airy Learning Tree. From 1973 to 1979, he served as Director of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Pennsylvania. He later transitioned to law firm administration, holding senior positions at Clark Ladner Fortenbaugh & Young, Litvin Blumberg Matusow & Young, and Drinker Biddle & Reath, and served in leadership roles with the Association of Legal Administrators.

John joined the Episcopal Church in 1961 and contributed generously of his time and skills in every parish he belonged to, particularly St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Chestnut Hill. He served in many roles including Accounting Warden, Lay Reader, Vestryman, Usher, and Delegate to Diocesan Convention. He was also appointed to a five-year Jewish–Episcopal dialogue commission and served on the board of Episcopal Community Services, including four years as President.

John and Paula enjoyed sailing on the Chesapeake, annual vists to Sanibel Island, attending the Philadelphia Orchestra, lifelong learning through lectures and museums, and traveling across Europe. In retirement, he served as Judge of Elections in Cheltenham Township and as a National Park Service volunteer guide at Independence Hall where he shared history with thousands of visitors from around the world.

John will be remembered for his devotion to family, his enduring curiosity about history, and his ability to turn even casual conversations into discussions of history and politics.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Chestnut Hill. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Episcopal Community Services (225 S. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106) or St. James School (3217 W. Clearfield St., Philadelphia, PA 19132).