Born October 3rd, 1926 in Leolyn, Tioga Co. PA, he was the eldest son of Woods Garth McNett and Marion (Ward) McNett. Jack grew up in Leolyn and attended the English Hill School, Roaring Branch School and Canton High School.
In October of 1944, while a senior in high school, Jack was drafted into the Army. As an avid photographer, Jack took yearbook pictures for his class prior to starting basic training in Alabama. Jack was able to join his graduating class while on leave in May of 1945. After training his unit was sent to Okinawa via Hawaii. While in Okinawa the war concluded and he went on to Japan as part of the occupation forces, returning home as a Master Sergeant. The Army had trained him as a radar technician which led to a lifelong interest in radio and television electronics.
Upon returning home from the Army in 1946 Jack worked at various odd jobs before starting a 41-year career at the former Swayze Folding Box Company.
On January 19th, 1949 he married Eleanor Monroe of Granville Summit. The wedding took place at the Methodist parsonage in Ralston. Jack and Eleanor settled in Canton where they raised their three sons. While working at Swayze’s Jack found time to pursue his interest in photography, electronics, hunting and shooting. For many years Jack was well known for his expertise in radio and television repairs throughout the greater Canton area.