Obituary of John Anthony Ireland

John Anthony Ireland, 79, passed away peacefully surrounded by his daughters on March 19, 2023, at Mount Nittany Medical Center. A bilingual leader, John built a successful international healthcare management career in countries such as Mexico, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and Spain.

John was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the middle child and only son of Lillian Clark Ireland and Russell Morgan Ireland of London, England. He was educated on the Caribbean island of Barbados before enrolling at Gresham's School in Holt, Norfolk, England. Acceptance to Cornell University brought him to Ithaca, NY, where he majored in hotel administration. After graduation, he served as a lieutenant in the United States Army, primarily stationed in Atlanta, GA. He attended George Washington University on the GI Bill, earning a Master's degree in Business Administration and Management.

Early in his career, John had a long tenure as CEO of Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock, PA, where he became an American citizen. He was known for longtime leadership within the Hospital Association of Pennsylvania and for supporting several nonprofits including United Way. John eventually relocated to State College, PA, where he ran Clearfield Hospital, then moved to Mexico as president of ABC Medical Center in Mexico City. From there, he spent decades working on all major continents as an operations, restructuring, and reinvention expert, most recently CEO of Teknon Medical Center in Barcelona.

A natural athlete and sports lover, John enjoyed running, coaching soccer, fitness classes, tennis, and supporting Barça futbol. He brought fun to every room and shined warmth and acceptance onto so many people. Nothing could better prepare us for grief than his lifetime of role-modeling positivity and perseverance.

John was a loving father to Jill Sweeney (Jamie) of Pittsburgh; Elizabeth Ireland (Ben) of Ojai, CA; beloved brother to Joan Hall (Brian) of London, England, and Jennifer Arthur (Michael) of Fishbourne, England.

Arrangements for a celebration of his life are pending. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.