John Edward Grindstaff, Jr.

John Edward Gindstaff, Jr., 71, of Massillon, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Saturday evening, February 24, 2018.  Born in Cambridge, Ohio, February 3, 1947, a son to the late John E. and Mary (Burkey) Grindstaff, Sr., John attended Cambridge High School and completed his GED while serving in the US Army.  He is an honorably discharged Vietnam veteran having earned the rank of sergeant.  Employed for several years as plant manager for Crown Fiberglass in Orrville, he had also worked in product development with A.R.E. in Mt. Eaton until his retirement in 2012.  John held membership in the Sons and Daughters of Herman, Massillon Lodge, as well as several other fraternal and service organizations where he had made numerous life-long friends.  He enjoyed travel and the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping and loved to get away to his favorite spot, “the farm,” in Gurnsey County.  He placed his family and friends at the center of his life and always treasured the time they spent together.
Predeceased by his parents; sister, Nancy Grindstaff Fettes and brother, William R. Grindstaff; John is survived by his daughter, Colleen D. Crowe (and Tim Crowe), of Massillon – John had always regarded Tim more like a son that a son-in-law; and their two sons, Carter and Brennen, will always remain their grandpa’s pride and joy.  Also surviving are his special cousins, Eugene (Fern) Church and William D. Church, all of Cambridge; numerous nieces and nephews; his former wife, Susan McKee, of Massillon and special friend, Caroline Miller, also of Massillon.
John’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service at noon on Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon.  Pastor Larry Lalama will officiate and a private burial will follow.  The family will receive condolences one hour prior to the service, from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. in the funeral home.    

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