John was born on October 9, 1931, in Sharon, Pennsylvania. He was the first person on either side of his family to graduate from 8th grade. After high school, he obtained a full college scholarship which enabled him to attend Youngstown University, graduating in 1953. He earned a Masters in Economics from Kent State University in 1964. After college he was drafted by the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War, an experience which was both arduous and illuminating. Subsequently he enjoyed a variety of personnel and industrial relations positions with RCA, General Electric, GATX, Union Tank Car, and The First National Bank of Chicago.

John chose to retire early at age 58 in order to become the at- home parent for his two children, then ages 7 and 8. He learned to cook, coached soccer, became president of Wilmette's District 39 School Board, and was all-around manager of house and home. One of John's proudest achievements was, along with his wife, traveling to all 48 continental states with their children before they left for college. John was known to family and friends for his gentle kindness, broad intelligence, witty sense of humor, and wonderful Christmas letters.

Surviving John are his wife of 48 years, Sallyann Garner, and their children: Jeremy (Sarah) Shea and Alexandra (Aaron) Colin along with five grandchildren: Lillian, Owen, Beatrix, Penelope and Eliza.

John's life will be celebrated in a Quaker memorial service held at Lake Forest Friends Meeting House, 101 West Old Elm Road, Lake Forest, IL at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023.