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Welcome to the memorial page for

John M. Gurney

March 28, 1952 ~ February 17, 2016 (age 63) 63 Years Old
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A candle was lit by Jeff and Tunya Moorhead on March 20, 2016 1:29 AM
Message from Sue (Barnett) Wills
March 14, 2016 10:53 AM

Jill and family, So extremely sorry to hear of your struggles and loss of John. He was a light for many and his life has touched us all. He will be missed greatly. You and your family will be in our prayers. There is comfort knowing that he is no longer in pain and with the Lord. May your many years together be always close to your heart. God blessings to you all.
Message from Brian King
March 9, 2016 2:21 PM

I'm Mr. Gurney I will always have fond memories of you and your mentoring. Living in Seattle, WA, I'm always the last to know about Shelby, OH news. I will never forget an evening were you helped me with my foul line shooting. To this day, in every Soldier pick up game, I'm always clutch on the court. Thank You for all guidance, your mentoring , and you did for our community.
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A candle was lit by Ricky K on March 9, 2016 1:56 AM
Message from Mike Hartz
March 6, 2016 3:29 PM

Jill and Family,
I am deeply sorry for your earthly loss of John. It is with a certain hope that you will see him again. He is now in the caring arms of his Lord and Savior.
John had that unique presence of making you feel better about yourself after just a brief encounter with him. I'll never forget attending my nephew's minor league baseball game a few years ago and seeing John behind the plate umpiring. Here was a man who had reached great heights in officiating who could still take time to help 9 year old kids. John truly had a servant's heart. He has left a legacy which we all can admire.
Our prayer is that God will comfort you now and in the days to come.
Mike Hartz
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A candle was lit by Dustin & Rachel Hamilton on March 4, 2016 11:57 PM
Message from Dustin Hamilton
March 4, 2016 7:02 PM

Jodie,Matt & Gurney Family,
God bless you all through your grieving process.
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A candle was lit by Debbi Rettig Luman on March 4, 2016 11:56 AM
Message from Maria Hartings Yeager
March 3, 2016 6:22 PM

Deepest sympathy many prayers for all.
Message from Leo Bev Hartings
March 3, 2016 6:21 PM

Deepest condolences our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Message from Steve & Ellen Haverfield
March 2, 2016 6:44 PM

Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family, Jill. I hope you feel the love of God and this community surrounding you. God bless and keep you all.
Message from Connie Stepsis
March 2, 2016 1:37 PM

What a special man!! So many fond memories of John and your family!! John will be missed by so many. He is in a glorious place now, free of pain! Sending love to your family!!
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A candle was lit by Warren and Margaret Wagner on March 1, 2016 2:09 PM
Message from Harolyn Legg
February 29, 2016 2:47 PM

It was my pleasure to know John through his officiating games at Liberty-Benton. I always looked forward to games he had at L-B - he was always so friendly and was a great official. I know he was one of Dean Butler's favorite officials and I'm sure he and Dean are talking basketball in heaven now. My sympathy to the entire family.
Message from Kris Brown Smith
February 29, 2016 2:29 PM

Jill and family, My heart goes out to you, as John went home to the Lord so much sooner than anyone wanted. May God give you strength and that deep sense of peace that only comes from Him.
Kris (Brown) Smith
Message from Gary Kreft
February 29, 2016 2:05 PM

My deepest sympathy to Jill and family . I enjoyed every game of High School basketball I refereed with John. He knew many of my Karl relation and made me feel like a first cousin. I'll miss him greatly
Message from Ron and Linda Nelson
February 28, 2016 5:57 PM

John was a very respected man and performed as a wonderful referee. Please accept our sympathies and prayers for the passing of John.
Message from Paula Clagg
February 28, 2016 4:33 PM

Dear Family of John and to his loving wife Jill,
It is hard to put into words the impact that John had in my life. John had prayed for our son, Greg, several times and would ask me about him at different times when he would see me coming through the bank. I was able to communicate to John, with gratefulness, that our son had come to see us during Thanksgiving after longer than two years of no contact.
Praying for your family and missing such a dear man of God. In Christian Love, Paula Clagg
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A candle was lit by Terry and Robin Boice on February 26, 2016 10:36 PM
Message from Marcia Baer
February 26, 2016 10:28 PM

During my years of teaching at Ontario high school, I got to know John Gurnee as a friend and official. He is going to be missed by a lot of people and he made a difference with young people. He was a very special young man. Remember God gave us the gift of memories.
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A candle was lit by Mike and Karen Will on February 25, 2016 7:27 PM
Message from Paul and Peg Ludwig
February 23, 2016 6:49 PM

Our dear Wayne and Karen....Paul and I send our deep condolences for the death of John. He certainly was well thought of as a good referee. I know this must be very tough losing this dear brother. May you feel the prayers of your friends. Our love and prayers, Paul and Peg Ludwig
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A candle was lit by Paul and Peg Ludwig on February 23, 2016 6:43 PM
Message from Marc Robinson
February 23, 2016 2:28 PM

Jill,

I just wanted to pass along my heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. As a former classmate of yours as well as a former Head Basketball Coach, I had John as a referee countless times. He was one of the finest officials I ever worked with and an even better person!. Everyone in the coaching fraternity had nothing but the utomost respect for John and it was always a pleasure coaching a game when John blew the whistle. His professionalism and integrity were unmatched. Please know that my prayers are with you and may God Bless.

Marc Robinson
Shelby Class of 1972
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A candle was lit by Gregg & Connie Fazio on February 23, 2016 9:50 AM
Message from Jerry and Adrienne Artz
February 23, 2016 7:29 AM

We are so sorry for your loss - keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Message from Marva (Stickney) Victor
February 22, 2016 11:03 PM

Dear Jill, I'm so sorry to hear of John's death. Our family knew his family since Little League days with my brother. He was a good guy even back then. Marva
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A candle was lit by Dave and Donna Hipp on February 22, 2016 10:45 PM
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A candle was lit by Len and Rosemary (Frangella) Reidel on February 22, 2016 6:22 PM
Message from Ann Cooper
February 22, 2016 4:23 PM

Jill and family, There are not words to convey what I am feeling right now as my heart aches for you, Jonathan, Janie, Megan and Jodie. I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you and John has left an amazing legacy not only for your family but for all who knew him as well as the town of Shelby. My love to all of you and I know that God is you strength and comfort at this time.
Message from Chris Byrne
February 22, 2016 3:10 PM

The officiating fraternity is lessened by John's passing; the community is without another "citizen" in the truest sense and the family must soldier on absent their leader. A friend such as John does not often bless our existence and it is quite unlikely another of such character will grace my presence.
"May the road rise to meet you, may the wind always be at your back. May the rains fall soft upon your fields, the sun shine warm and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His merciful hand.
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A candle was lit by Dale and Peggy Humphrey and Family... on February 22, 2016 1:09 PM
Message from Lori Dill Barnett
February 22, 2016 9:35 AM

My payers for John's Family. He was an amazing mentor, coach, and teacher. The lives he influenced and touched are innumerable and the inspiration immeasurable. A truly remarkable, generous, genuine man. Our loss!! But he carried out God's work very well! We were so blessed. With the greatest respect and sincere sympathy-Lori [Dill] Barnett-Berning, formerly of Junior Achievement North Central Ohio
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A candle was lit by Bill and Emily Wheeler on February 21, 2016 5:39 PM
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A candle was lit by Nancy (Parsons) Schmidt on February 21, 2016 5:01 PM
Message from Nancy (Parsons) Schmidt
February 21, 2016 5:01 PM

Jill and Family, Wayne and Family, I'm so sorry for your loss. John was an incredible man and was a great friend to all. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. You have my deepest sympathy!
Message from Mike Sirofchuck
February 21, 2016 2:01 PM

My condolences to Jill and the family. John was a wonderful man and an important mentor to me in high school. His life is a model for us all. "Good night sweet prince: [may] flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!"
Message from Fred Studer
February 21, 2016 5:09 PM

To Jill and family, My condolences and deepest sympathy for your loss. John will not be forgotten. May God Bless and Keep You and Yours Always!!!
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A candle was lit by Mike Sirofchuck on February 21, 2016 1:55 PM
Message from Jerry and Sharon Tackett
February 21, 2016 1:11 PM

We r so sorry for ur loss, he was a great man and he will always be remembered. He fought a great fight.....God received another Angel. May God be with and ur family in this time of grieving.
Message from Gloria Thompson Deverick
February 21, 2016 12:52 PM

Oh Janie, I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad. He will surely missed by many. Again, I'm sorry for your loss. Gloria
Message from Dan Swagerty
February 20, 2016 8:31 PM

I knew John as a Basketball Official during my three years at Mansfield Christian School as Athletic Director and Boys Basketball Coach from 1980-83. He was the finest of officials and thoroughly enjoyed giving you his best on the court. He always had the game under control and kept excellent tabs on the potential problems in the game that usually never happened.

My prayers are with the family as they go through this time in their lives. May God's peace that passes all understanding be very real to you and your family.

John represented his family and more importantly, his Lord, to the best of his ability. His light shined daily as all saw there was something different about John...simply put...JESUS!!!

May your memories be many and fond and may each and every one of us help carry on the legacy that John has left us.

Dan Swagerty
Former Athletic Director & Boys Basketball Coach
Mansfield Christian School
Message from Gary and Pat Fairchild
February 20, 2016 8:16 PM

Jill and Family, with deepest sympathy we extend our love and prayers to each of you. It truly has been a blessing and a joy to be considered a friend of John's. He will forever be in our memories. He was truly a Christ follower and a fisher of men. May the peace and love of God surround you as you walk this difficult road.
Message from John & Tina Thompson
February 20, 2016 3:27 PM

Jill and Family: Know that our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during these very trying times. John was a truly caring and giving man not only to his family, but to anyone with whom he associated. John has left a lasting legacy never to be forgotten, not only by you, but with Shelby and many surrounding communities as well. I can't tell you the number of times I was fortunate to ref with John, nor how many weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, we gathered in a gym or on the practice field to play basketball and football. Those memories will last and be with me forever. John touched many lives and has told his story- what a wonderful role model for so many. May you find peace and comfort in God's love as he is with each and every one of you today and always.
Message from Brenda Montgomery
February 20, 2016 1:52 PM

Jill and family---You may not remember me, I use to work for Dr. Kim, and you were always a very sweet patient. I am so sorry to hear of your loss and please know I will hold you and your family in my prayer. May God comfort you with His peace and love.
Message from Larry Morrison
February 20, 2016 12:41 PM

My condolences to the Gurney family.
I have known John for many years through his officiating basketball. As an assigner I tried to hire him to work games in our league because he was one of the best. I always knew that he would do the job in a professional manner. I saw him work games in Columbus at the state tournament on several occasions. Not only was he an outstanding official but he was even a greater person. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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A candle was lit by Susan Livingston Prayers for Jill and the family. on February 20, 2016 12:31 PM
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A candle was lit by Andy and Lisa King on February 20, 2016 11:21 AM
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A candle was lit by Jonita Fagan Morgan on February 20, 2016 11:10 AM
Message from Phil Hobbs
February 20, 2016 10:49 AM

Rest In Peace John. My condolences to your family. I remember our softball days. We played many a game together.
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A candle was lit by Sue Wetz on February 20, 2016 10:39 AM
Message from John and Karen Adkins
February 20, 2016 10:09 AM

We are so sorry to hear about your loss. . .John was such a nice man and always willing to help whomever he could. We remember him not only from our former church, but his parents used to live just a few houses from us years ago and we got to know the whole family. May the peace and love of God surround you and yours and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Let us know if we can help In any way.
Message from Ron Russell
February 20, 2016 9:03 AM

Was devastated to learn of this! May he continue on his journey with peace an happiness for eternity!
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A candle was lit by Bev Wilcox on February 20, 2016 7:48 AM
Message from Jason and Tiffany McCoy
February 20, 2016 6:44 AM

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. John was such a wonderfully nice and professional person who I really got to know through his work at Sutton and Mechanics. Over 10 or more years our professional relationship became much more of a friendship and many of our business lunches would contain conversations about his family and my family. We have much respect for John and he will be missed by many.
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A candle was lit by Jason and Tiffany McCoy on February 20, 2016 6:24 AM
Message from Rose Hughes
February 20, 2016 6:09 AM

It seems that everyone I know knows John too but from a different place. For some he reminds them of high school and youthful energy on the sports field. Other remember his persistence as they saw him running daily on their way home from work. Some never met him but saw the video of his testimony and were impressed with his deep faith. In a world where people do stupid things for 15 minutes of worthless fame, John lived a life of quality with his family and his faith to sustain him. Jill, you and your family are in my prayers.
Message from Steve and Barb Peebles
February 20, 2016 2:25 AM

Jill and Kids, you are in our prayers for comfort and healing at this time. We are so sorry we can not be there for service and visitation at this time, but know you will remain in our thoughts and prayers through this time. John showed us all what it means to live life to the fullest.
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A candle was lit by Barbara Parsons Fensch , Love everlasting on February 20, 2016 1:15 AM
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A candle was lit by Ryan & Jennie Schroeder on February 20, 2016 12:51 AM
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A candle was lit by Linda and Al Striker1 on February 19, 2016 11:00 PM
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A candle was lit by Pam Lynch & Family on February 19, 2016 9:34 PM
Message from Sam and Kari Lybarger
February 19, 2016 9:01 PM

Jill and family,
We are so sorry about John. Please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers. We sure will miss seeing him when Emma plays basketball.
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A candle was lit by Bobby and Connie Oney on February 19, 2016 8:59 PM
Message from Ben and Molly Adams
February 19, 2016 8:41 PM

John is a great friend of my dad, Mike Adams. I remember going to see John with my dad when he came through to referee basketball games at Defiance College a few times. Although I never got to know him as well as, I know how much he means to my dad and others. I look forward to meeting up with him again someday. Deepest sympathies to the family.

~Ben and Molly Adams
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A candle was lit by Ben and Molly Adams on February 19, 2016 8:35 PM
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A candle was lit by Dan and Lynn Johnson on February 19, 2016 8:31 PM
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A candle was lit by Allegra Pressey Andersen on February 19, 2016 8:07 PM
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A candle was lit by Debbie Adkins on February 19, 2016 7:46 PM
Message from Mic Kempf and Family
February 19, 2016 6:41 PM

Jill and Family- You have our most sincere condolences in you loss of John. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. John was an amazing guy. Truly a role model for many. I can still remember him from my high school days hanging out with the Wilson family. God bless and see you soon-
The Kempf family - Mic, Jo, Peyton & Paige
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A candle was lit by Cori Catherwood Hoag on February 19, 2016 6:14 PM
Message from Bruce and Vickie Knapp
February 19, 2016 6:14 PM

Bruce and I have known John and his wife when we attended First Church of God. My daughter Ashley knew Johnathan and one thing I can say is God is getting a great man. Sending our sympathies to the family. He was a fine example of a man!
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A candle was lit by Bruce and Vickie Knapp on February 19, 2016 6:10 PM
Message from Jennie Petersen LeMaster & Emmett LMaster & Helen Petersen
February 19, 2016 5:56 PM

Our Sympathies and Heartfelt Condolences to Jill and the rest of the family. God be with you all during this time of loss and may you find peace in the knowledge that John is at rest with the Lord and one day we will all be together again. God be with you. Amen
Message from Val Brown
February 19, 2016 5:42 PM

To Jill and family, I am so sorry for you loss. May your faith and warm memories comfort all of you at this sad time.
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A candle was lit by Debra (August) Keene on February 19, 2016 5:41 PM
Message from Amy Albert Brown
February 19, 2016 5:34 PM

My deepest sympathy go out to you and your family. Sending prayers your way.
Message from Tammy Schrader
February 19, 2016 5:06 PM

John was a true example of a Godly man who led his family in the ways of the Lord. Your family has been an inspiration to many people over the years and has touched my life beyond words. I am praying for your family during this difficult time. You have my sincere sympathy.
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A candle was lit by Deena Carr Maness and the Carr family on February 19, 2016 4:43 PM
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A candle was lit by Larry & Ann Stoffer on February 19, 2016 4:24 PM
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A candle was lit by Tom and Dianne Stover on February 19, 2016 4:20 PM
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A candle was lit by Sally Stover Cline on February 19, 2016 3:57 PM
Message from Susie Gerber (Mickits)
February 19, 2016 3:55 PM

Dearest Jill and children, I'm so sorry for your incredible loss. I've walked that road and know the uncertainty you feel right now. John will always be with you in your heart. He's with the Father patiently waiting. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this sad time.
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A candle was lit by Bob &Sue Stover on February 19, 2016 3:42 PM
Message from Jane Stentz Risner
February 19, 2016 3:37 PM

Jill and family, I am so sorry for your loss. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Shim and Linda LaGoy
February 19, 2016 3:35 PM

Jill and Family,
Hold precious the memories. John has left a lasting impression on many. We worked together many years ago. May you find peace and comfort on the days ahead.
Message from Michelle (Gilbert) Bettner
February 19, 2016 3:25 PM

Words cannot express my feelings for your family during this time. I pray that God will continue to bless you all , and to keep your faith strong as you learn to navigate your new "normal." I remember John as my first softball coach, always fair and so encouraging. Later, he was an ever present smiling face on the basketball court, as I
cheered along side Jodie. What an amazing legacy he leaves behind in each and every one of you!
Message from Larry Frontz
February 19, 2016 3:15 PM

Jill & Family: So sorry for your great loss. Prayers and comfort to all.
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A candle was lit by Larry Frontz on February 19, 2016 3:12 PM
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A candle was lit by Madelyn Laughbaum on February 19, 2016 2:52 PM
Message from Debbie Sheridan
February 19, 2016 2:49 PM

Jill & Children, I'm very sorry for your loss. Just know that he is in a better place...
Message from Lisa & Norm Shoemaker & family
February 19, 2016 2:48 PM

Jill and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Message from Jodie Hutchins (Lenczowski)
February 19, 2016 2:43 PM

We are so sorry for your loss. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
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A candle was lit by Kim Weightman on February 19, 2016 2:35 PM
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A candle was lit by Prayers from the Ray and Jean Morgan family. on February 19, 2016 2:26 PM
Message from Nancy & Clarence Ousley
February 19, 2016 2:09 PM

Jill and Family,
We are deeply sorry to you and your family for the loss of such a wonderful and caring person that John was to all that knew him. May God's comfort bless and help you thru the coming days ahead during this very difficult time.
Message from Roger and Marie Little
February 19, 2016 2:07 PM

Jill and Family
Our Condolences to your Family on the loss of your loved one John, he was a great person,dad,husband who lived life to matter and he did to a high degree. So sorry.
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A candle was lit by April Frisby and Emily Crossman...prayers to family on February 19, 2016 2:01 PM
Message from Michelle (Merkle) Bryson
February 19, 2016 1:56 PM

Jill, I'm so sorry that your family is going through this. I've watched the videos and read the articles. What a great man!
Thinking of you...
Live, Shelly
Message from Sandy Hartz Irish
February 19, 2016 1:53 PM

Jill and family,
It is with fond memories that I think of you and John from high school days. Via family I heard of John's cancer and have been praying for all of you. He was a dear brother in the Lord and is now with Him! Promoted to Glory to someday meet again..... What a day that will be!

With continued prayers,
Sandy (Hartz) Irish
Message from Kerry MacQueen
February 19, 2016 1:50 PM

May each word shared with you during this difficult time bring you all peace! Hugs to you my friend Janie and your family! ❤️
Message from Tom and Becky Adams
February 19, 2016 1:44 PM

Jill and Family,
Our condolences to you on the loss of John. He is in a better place.
Message from Ed and Cheryl Schumacher
February 19, 2016 1:44 PM

I am so very sorry for your loss. He leaves a beautiful legacy for his family
Message from Patty & Mike Korbas
February 19, 2016 1:12 PM

Our deepest sympathy for your loss. John was a wonderful, giving person and a proud husband, father, and grandfather. His life will live within all of you as it has for many years. Memories are blessings that will help you during this time. Our thoughts and prayers to all of you.
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A candle was lit by Ed McRussell. (That's what he always callled me.) RIP John on February 19, 2016 1:10 PM
Message from Dawn Argo
February 19, 2016 1:09 PM

Jill and children,
I am so sorry for your loss. John was an amazing person. I'm so glad I was able to be a part of his life, as he always had a way of making any day a better day by just a conversation or a greeting. I will always cherish our Columbus trips to state basketball finals. Such fun. Please know that my thoughts and continued prayers are with you all.
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A candle was lit by A friend 😰💔 on February 19, 2016 1:01 PM
Message from Traci Moorhead Seibert
February 19, 2016 12:50 PM

Jill and Family ~ you have my sincere sympathy.
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