John Mark Gehringer

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 am on Saturday, August 8, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Monsignor Richard D. Harris officiating.

John was born March 14, 1961 in Erie, PA to the late Elmer and Nell Hlynsky Gehringer. He was a 1979 graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School, where he formed many lifelong friendships. John was a recipient of a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts from Mercyhurst University where he also was a member of the tennis and cross country teams.

John truly possessed a servant’s heart that alongside his natural charisma, artistic talent and tenacious strong willed spirit provided him the chance to live the life that most men dream of living. Most importantly, John loved his family and was the prime example of what a husband and father should be. He was a compassionate husband, a great cook, and an attentive father, who was a coach to any sport his children played. John was a great debater and storyteller; he was always quick to offer a “Dad Joke” just to bring a smile across someone’s face. By trade, he was an Art Director and worked in several capacities as an artist, designer and as an adjunct professor at the University of South Carolina before his decline in health. Even after he was not able to work he used his artistic skills volunteering in UN projects throughout many continents including Asia, Africa, and South America. John was steadfast in his faith and was a dedicated member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He enjoyed giving back to the church and school. In fact, their logos were designed by him, as well as the “Brownstone of the Madonna” painting that graces the church conference room. He formerly served on the school board, volunteering where he could, and was a Eucharistic Minister that gave him the opportunity to provide communion to those unable to attend Mass.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Mike Gehringer. Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Maria (Hofmann) Gehringer; five children, Vince Gehringer (Reyna Gonzalez), Erin Gehringer (Murphy McCracken), Nick Gehringer, Jake Gehringer, Mariah Gehringer; three grandchildren, Maddox McCracken, Jerry Gonzalez, Emily Gonzalez; a sister, Kathi Stebnisky (Mike), brother, Joe Gehringer (Anna), aunt, Sister Bernadine Gehringer and multiple nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to his Cathedral Prep family especially the reunion group for their friendships and the loving support given by the St. Joseph’s Church community. They would also like to thank Steve Foley for opening up his home while John received care in Cleveland, Ohio. Their deepest gratitude is extended to Dr. Kareem Abu-Elmagd and his staff at the Cleveland Clinic Transplant Center for their skilled care and compassion. Through their successful completion of a five organ transplantation, John was afforded five more years to enjoy his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to St. Joseph Catholic School Saints Fund.

https://www.stjosdevine.com/saints-fund

They would also like you to consider becoming an organ donor, as this second chance at life brings hope and joy to the recipient and family.