John William Steinberg

Captain John William Steinberg, age 79, of Marion, Texas passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2023. He was with family at home when he peacefully passed after an arduous battle from complications of Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam War.

John is survived by his wife, Jean; daughter, Carol and her husband, John Harris; son, Phillip and his wife Cheryl Steinberg; grandchildren, Brittany Steinberg, Mary Frances Harris, Noah Harris and Brandon Steinberg; his 5 sisters and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Steinberg-Wright, and 4 brothers.

John was born March 17, 1944 in Buffalo, New York. While growing up in Newark, NJ, he graduated from Irvington High School in 1962 with an emphasis in carpentry. He was voted Most Dependable by his graduating class. After graduation, he joined the US Air Force where he faithfully served his country for 28 years. He began his military career as a basic Airman and worked his way through the ranks to become an officer at the rank of Captain. He was known for his stringent work as a security police officer as well as an Office of Special Investigations (OSI) special agent. His career led him to serve in 10 states, 7 countries, and a variety of temporary deployment assignments. While serving at Amarillo AFB, John met Ima Jean Kratz who he married on their fourth date in September of 1967. Over the course of their 56-year marriage, the couple welcomed 2 children into their home as they traveled the globe serving our country and the church. The couple served many local churches in a variety of roles. They served as Sunday School teachers, board members, led many church organizations and even began a Serviceman's Center in the Philippines which today serves the spiritual needs of over 2,000 servicemen on a weekly basis.

While serving in the military, John continued his academic career. He completed his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Northern Michigan University in 1975. He continued his learning by acquiring a Master's degree in Business Administration from Central Texas University followed by a second Master's in Criminal Justice from SW Texas State University. He brought his education full circle by becoming an adjunct professor at St. Philip's College and San Antonio College from the years of 1999-2017. His classes were deemed favorites by many of his students.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1990, John began a second career of 25 years overseeing safety and security for Little Caesar's of San Antonio. During this time, he also worked for the US Department of Treasury conducting interviews and completing background checks for border control officers. He also served the state of Texas through governor appointments from both Governor Perry and Governor Abbot. He was appointed by both governors to oversee the compliance of accountants and chiropractors who are certified through the state of Texas. Additionally, he served the City of Converse as Mayor from 1997 until 1999.

John was passionate about gardening and was known for his delicious tomatoes. He also used his carpentry skills to complete a variety of home projects. In addition to these hobbies, John had 4 grandchildren that his world revolved around. "Poppie" did everything in his power to accommodate their every whim! John was an individual who was devoutly committed to his family and their growth as not only people of strength and integrity, but also as loyal followers of Christ. He was an active member of The Country Church in Marion, Texas where he faithfully served in many capacities. He was also a committed member and board member to a series of civic and military organizations including the Gideons International, Air Force OSI of San Antonio, Bexar County Republican Party, Bexar County Resolution Center and several others.

The funeral is scheduled for Sunday, June 25th at The Country Church (Marion, TX). There will be a viewing at 3 pm followed by the service beginning at 4 pm. Pastor Butch Ikels will officiate the service. Graveside services will be held with full military honors at Ft. Sam Houston on Monday, July 3rd. For those wishing to attend the graveside service, please meet at Colonial Funeral Home (Universal City, TX) at 9 am on July 3rd.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate John's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Fischer House of San Antonio. The Fisher House Inc. mission is to support military members, veterans, and their families while they receive medical treatment, care or support. Please use the following link: https://www.fisherhouseinc.org/donate

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.colonialuniversal.com for the Steinberg family.