Jack Paddock Finney

Jack Paddock Finney, born May 8, 1938, in Midland, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Growing up in San Mateo, California, Jack was a standout basketball player who led his high school team to a state championship and was later inducted into the San Mateo High School Athletics Hall of Fame. He continued his athletic career at the University of California, Berkeley, where he played for the Cal Bears, was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity, and was active in ROTC for four years. Following graduation, he served as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy for two years aboard the USS Turner Joy, followed by additional service in the United States Naval Reserve.

Jack enjoyed a distinguished 39-year career at Beckman Instruments, beginning in inside sales and rising to executive vice president of the Bioresearch Division. During his early years at Beckman, he earned his MBA while working full-time. He built a career defined by loyalty, integrity and leadership. He took great pride in his work and valued the many relationships he built over nearly four decades. A humble and generous mentor, he found great fulfillment in a career for which he remained deeply grateful.

Jack met Suzanne Townsend, 62 years ago, and she was the love of his life. They shared 60 wonderful years of marriage centered on family, deep commitment, friendship and the joy of being together. Travel and new experiences were a shared passion. He loved to dance and was known for his playful, good-humored pranks that brought laughter to those around him.In retirement, Jack and Suzie split their time between Newport Beach, California, and Sun Valley, Idaho—one of Jack’s favorite places on Earth. An avid skier, tennis player, golfer, hiker and runner, Jack lived life with energy, enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Jack’s optimism and kindness made others feel valued. Curious and well-read, he connected with people through warmth, respect and humor. A true gentleman, he lived with integrity and grace as a devoted husband, father and cherished grandfather. His presence was a steady, guiding force in our lives, and his legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the love he gave, and the memories we will forever hold close.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Townsend Finney; his daughter, Bridget Finney Higley, and her husband, David Higley, and their children Bronwen, Owen and Jack; and his son, Greg Finney, and his wife, Bay Bertea, and their daughters Ginger and Sierra.

A service to honor Jack’s life will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Newport Beach Country Club on June 20, 2026. Burial will take place in Ketchum, Idaho.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a contribution to Higher Ground (highergroundusa.org), Hoag Hospital Foundation (give.hoag.org), or the Wounded Warrior Project (support.woundedwarriorproject.org).