John was born in Huntington, West Virginia, and his family moved to east Dayton when he was 4 years old. He attended Cleveland Elementary School and then entered Stivers High where he immersed himself in athletics. As a freshman he played basketball, but joined the football team his sophomore year, only to retire from that sport with a knee injury. He also played baseball for Stivers in the summer league which at that time was underwritten by various businesses and industries.
His concentration became basketball, which he played for three years, lettering for two years at center and forward. John was the second leading scorer and the top rebounder on an unusually small, but talented, Stivers basketball team which was among the region’s best during those years. He played with Hall of Famer Joe Kitchen who later starred at the University of Louisville, a Final Four NCAA team. At 6”1” John played way above his height and was named to the 2nd Team All District. That year Stivers lost by one point to Middletown in the district tournament. John was a tough competitor who played a well-balanced, all around game – the type of player who helped unify his team.
After graduation, John served for two years in the Marine Corps. Once again a civilian, he joined the Dayton Police Department. For 27 years he was the School Safety Ocer for over 108 Dayton public and parochial schools. In 1994 Joined the Marine Corps League which is made up of retired marine personnel. For two years he was the commandant and later -lled several other positions. Presently he is the Senior Vice Commandant. The League provides the Honor Guard which is provided for the burials of killed in action marines. The Firing Detail, consisting of seven men, goes to the burial site and conducts a full military ceremony for our departed heroes. This is a proper and impressive ceremony for those who made the supreme sacrifice. – And for this – we thank him!
John is married to Kathy, who is with him today.