John Christian Marker, 97, of Mears, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at his home. He was born May 4, 1922, in Greenville, OH, and at the age of 4 was adopted by William and Naomi Marker.

Following his graduation from Greenville High School, John married his high school sweetheart, Helen Bollinger on January 19, 1943. They were married for 74 years and John insisted it was love at first sight from the age of 4.

John proudly served his country in the US Army Air Corps, as Staff sergeant, during World War II. During his service, he was awarded four bronze stars, and the Air Medal Clusters Good Conduct Medal.

Following his service to his country, John worked as an automotive mechanic, managing the service department of the Greenville, OH, Ford dealership. He also obtained a teaching certificate from the University of Cincinnati and was a vocational instructor at Montgomery County Vocational School in Dayton, OH. John and Helen retired to Mears, where John could be found repairing go-carts and mopeds around Silver Lake.

John is survived by: three children, Carolyn Ritter (Robert Flanery) of Walkerville, Pamela Clark (William Gibbons) of Rossberg, OH, and John H. (Debbie) Marker of FL; two grandchildren, Erinn (Joe) Frech of New Madison, OH, Dan (Candy) Helm of Greenville, OH; three great-grandchildren, Amanda McGlinch, Jacob Frech, and Emily Frech; one great-great granddaughter, Abby McGlinch.

John was preceded in death by: his loving wife, Helen Marker; his parents; and his brother.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at West Golden Wesleyan Church, 2752 N. 34th Avenue, Mears, MI 49436. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, Monday, May 20, 2019, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72 ^nd Avenue, Hart, MI 49420. Interment will take place in Mears Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to West Golden Wesleyan Church.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com