James Knox Meneely Jr., known affectionately as "Skip," passed away April 5, 2024, in The Woodlands, Texas. Born October 13, 1929, in Staten Island, New York, he lived a remarkable life enriched by deep relationships and profound experiences.

Skip's lifelong love of learning began at Blair Academy in New Jersey where he excelled at various academic and athletic pursuits. He continued his studies at Dartmouth College where he set a freshman year record in the javelin and was a member of Theta Chi fraternity.

Driven by a sense of duty, Skip left college early to serve in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He learned to speak Russian at Syracuse University, joined an elite communications intelligence team and was stationed in Europe and North Africa.

After returning to finish his studies at Dartmouth, Skip attended the Thunderbird School of Global Management where he learned Spanish and prepared for what turned out to be a 35-year career with Armco Inc. in Colombia, Venezuela, Mexico and the U.S.

In his very active retirement, Skip became a master gardener, delivered holiday letters for the Post Office, worked as a lifeguard, and volunteered in the Executive Peace Corp in Croatia and Montenegro.  At the age of 70, he picked up the javelin once again, set various records and was ranked first in the world for his age group.  This feat won him acceptance to Dartmouth's "Wearers of the Green" athletic hall of fame.

Skip cherished his role as a devoted husband, father, and stepfather. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Susan Ripoll Meneely, and a blended family—Scott, Robin, Mary, Jim, Marisa, Susana (deceased), and Jorge. Their bond, forged through shared adventures and enduring love, will endure as a testament to Skip's profound impact on their lives.

May Skip's adventurous spirit continue to guide us as we navigate life's uncharted waters, drawing strength from the enduring legacy of a remarkable man.

In lieu of flowers, family requests considerations to:

Blair Academy: https://www.blair.edu/support-blair

Dartmouth: https://calltolead.dartmouth.edu/

Korean War Veterans Memorial: https://koreanwarvetsmemorial.org/