John E. ''Jack'' Higgins, 92, died at home in his sleep Thursday morning. He worked for the John Hancock Life Insurance Co. from 1929 until he retired in 1974. He began his career as an office clerk and rose to a Regional Office Supervisor and finally Director of Labor Relations. When he retired from the labor relations at John Hancock at the age of 65, he immediately began a second and very active career as an arbitrator and mediator. He handled cases in both the public and private sector and was on the panel of the American Arbitration Association. Jack was known for using his wit and wisdom in difusing difficult strikes and contract disputes all over New England.He retired as an arbitrator in 1997. Active in the community, he served on the Board of Directors of Melrose - Wakefield Hospital and as President of the Hospital. He was a Boy Scout leader throughout his life at both St Mary's Church and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Minutemen Council of the Boy Scouts. Jack was a Melrose resident for 62 years, a parishioner of St Mary's Church, receiving numerous awards for his community service including the Silver Beaver Adult Scout Medal and the Cushing-Gavin Award from the the Archdiocesan Labor Relations School. Born in Lowell, he graduated from Medford High and Burnett Business College. He was particularly proud of the Certificate of Training that he received for completing the program at the Labor Guild Labor Relations School. Jack was the husband of Catherine M. ( Grant ) Higgins for 63 years. Father of John E. Higgins Jr. of Chevy Chase, MD, Richard G. Higgins of Londonderry, NH, Mary Catherine Harbin of Rockville, Md and Robert F. Higgins of Boston. Also survived by 7 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and several nieces & nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Monday Jan 21st at 9 AM. Funeral Mass in St Mary's Church Herbert St. Melrose at 10 AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours Sun 2-4 & 6-8 PM. Memorial contributions may be sent to The Labor Guild, 883 Hancock St, Quincy, 02170. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.