John was born on February 28, 1955, in Chicago, IL, son of the late James and Betty (Cooper) Ison. He graduated from Lockport High School West in 1972. He then attended Southern Illinois University, where he played baseball and graduated in 1977. Following graduation John joined Zayres Department Store and then went to work for Sacred Heart Convent. In 1984 John joined Frank’s Nursery & Craft where he eventually became the Vice-President of Purchasing and worked for 20 years until leaving in 2004. He then went to work for the John Henry Company as a National Account Manager retiring in 2020.
John was a man of many interests, having an affinity for Classic Rock Music, Baseball, and a love of gardening. His pride and joy was his backyard and his many gardens. An avid photographer, he was always looking for that next great shot and enjoyed sharing his pictures with all. He was a man who lived life to its fullest, and even survived a crash landing of a airplane. Most of all, John enjoyed spending time with his family. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by: his children Melissa (Brian) Johnson, Sarah (Mike) Manzella and Jeremy (fiance’ Dominique) Ison; grandchildren Santos, Gianna, Joey, Avery, and River; significant other, Michelle O’Keefe ; former wife & close friend, Kathy Ison; and his ‘boys’, Abe & Theo. Also survived by sisters Jean Weber & Janet Sanders, a brother Jim Ison, along with numerous nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his dog ‘Peaty’.
The family will receive friends Friday, October 6, from 4 to 8 pm at the Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Drive, Rochester. A celebration of John’s life will be held 11 am Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the funeral home. Inurnment at a later date at Guardian Angel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to plant a tree in John’s memory may be made at alivingtribute.org.
As we share memories of John and to honor one of his greatest passions in life, please wear your favorite baseball attire to the funeral home and the celebration lunch.
All are invited to continue the celebration of John's life at the home of Melissa and Brian Johnson immediately following the funeral home service.
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