He was a son to the late Joseph R. Koelsch & Sharon Koelsch who survives. John is also survived by a son, Johnny Hammans (Ariel) of Bedford; Two brothers, Monte Tucker of Lynchburg, Richard Koelsch & his wife DeeDee of Rustburg. John was a proud uncle to Jessica Lewis (Bryan), Brittany Gilbert (Robbie), Courtney Lethcoe (Jeremy), Allison Koelsch, Shawn Koelsch, Luke Lethcoe, Cora-Beth Lethcoe, and Skarlett Gilbert. John also leaves behind many other cherished family members and friends.
John’s life began on December 04, 1964, in Santa Barbara, California. As one of three boys John loved acting as “big” brother even if he technically was the middle child! He was always ready to show his brothers the ropes and teach them how to have fun. He never turned down a chance to play ball with his little brother Richard. He always enjoyed sports of all kinds. He participated in playing basketball and tennis while in school. John’s high school years brought forth a big move across the country with his family to Lynchburg, Virginia. He finished his final school years at LCA where he continued to play sports for the Bulldogs.
Upon graduation John joined the Airforce where he received decorations and badges such as the Airforce Training Ribbon & the Airforce Longevity Service Award. While in the Airforce John contributed to his country as a jet engine mechanic and technician.
Later in his life John enjoyed working for Automated Conveyor Systems, Inc. He especially enjoyed the ability to travel for his job. John loved seeing new places and eating a good meal in a new town. He was an adventure seeker who loved to be on two wheels, listen to good music, strum on a guitar, hike, cheer on the Raiders, and enjoyed pushing others to live life to the fullest. He especially enjoyed his family's annual beach vacation and spoiling everyone at Christmas time.
John’s natural charisma and personality allowed him to make friends all over. He was a generous man whose impact will be forever felt by his friends & family in California, Virginia, & all over the country too.
A visitation for John will be held Tuesday, August 29, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Whitten Timberlake Chapel, 7404 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24502, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
John will be laid to rest in Fort Hill Memorial Park, 5196 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg, Virginia 24502.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whittentimberlake.com for the Koelsch family.
