May 15, 2000

Funeral services were held May 10 for John M. Scarchuk, 86, of Coventry, a retired lecturer in plant science at the University.

Scarchuk, whose horticultural research was nationally recognized, retired in 1979 after 44 years of service. He earned a master's degree in plant science from UConn in 1938.

His research in plant breeding resulted in the introduction of seven All-American Selection awards of ornamental basil, squash, peppers and lettuce.

"John was truly devoted to plant breeding," says Nancy Weiss, director of development and alumnae affairs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She said Scarchuk carried his love of horticulture into retirement. "He was active in re-enactments of the Revolutionary War and often played the role of doctor carrying pharmacological plants onto the battlefield."

Scarchuk served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and had been a resident of Coventry since 1967 where he was active in the Coventry Garden Club, the Coventry Historical Society and the Nathan Hale Ancient Fife &Drum Corps.

He is survived by his wife, Emily, two sons, and four grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Nathan Hale Ancient Fife &Drum Corps., P.O. Box 1776, Coventry, CT 06238.