John Sos (1929-2024) had boundless intellectual curiosity, a steadfast devotion to his family and friends, and a unique ability to find joy in even the simplest things. He loved the outdoors, traveling to national parks and foreign countries, gazing at the stars through his telescope, reading non-fiction to learn about the world, and listening to classical music. He drew energy and fulfillment from his decades-long marriage to his wife, Ulana, and his deep connection to every member of his immediate and extended
family.
John was resourceful, practical, and resilient: he built a life in the United States after immigrating penniless from Ukraine after World War II, served as a USAF bombardier during the Korean War, and earned engineering degrees from Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania. John had a decorated career in the aerospace industry and with NASA, where he was a pioneer in satellite communication technology.
Until the end, he gave of himself to others. His laugh, his kindness, and his generosity will be missed and forever cherished. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for contributions in John’s memory to the Ukraine Charitable Platform (ukrainecharitable.org) and the Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation (ucufoundation.org).