John Mears

Born January 19, 1945, to the late Irene E. and O. Glenn Mears, Sr., John was a 1963 graduate of Glenwood High School and went on to Ohio University where he graduated cum laude with a degree in Business Administration. After marrying his high school sweetheart, Mary Laughery, John worked at Ohio Bell for three years. He then joined his father and brother, Glenn,Jr, in the family business, Park Honda and Marine on Rt. 62. Over the years the business grew to become Park Auto Group on Arlington Road in Akron.

John viewed all of life as an adventure, always seeing hard work as its own reward. This same commitment to his work informed his everyday life as well. He was an extraordinary athlete, completing both the Iron Man Race in Kona, Hawaii, in 1997, and a World Champion Olympic Distance Triathlon race in Switzerland. He also spent a winter in Alaska, training for the Iditarod Race. Over the years he participated in countless races and triathlons. In 2000, John was part of a six-person relay team that successfully swam the English Channel from England to France. As an enthusiastic aviator, he loved flying his private plane. On the ground John was also an artist who took painting classes from Bette Elliot for many years. Throughout his life, both in business and in retirement, John sought to help where there was a need, always shunning recognition.

Most of all, John loved and revered his family and friends. He leaves behind his sister Myrna (and Tony) Pastore, his brother, Glenn,Jr.( andPeggy) Mears, sons Jake and Curtis (Kristine), grandchildren, Riley and Annie, his former wife, Mary, and his special companion, Rebecca Calkins, who loved and cared for him throughout his illness.

The family will welcome all to a remembrance and a celebration of John’s life on Saturday, January 25th at 4:00 pm. at The Eagles Club, 6979 Sunset Strip N.W. in North Canton. Memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to Merging Hearts, 3751 Burrshire Drive N.W., Canton 44709, or to a charity of your choice. The Karlo-Libby Funeral Home (330-494-9644) is in charge of arrangements.