John Myers

John W. Myers, 80, of Hilliard, OH left his beloved family and friends on June 16th, 2023 at Kobacker House.  John was born in Jackson, MI on January 19, 1943 to Robert “Bubba” and Barbara (Miller) Myers.  He is survived by his loving wife, soul mate, and nurse of 35 years Rita (Klein) Myers; his children, Brenda Renshaw, Rob (Sarah) Myers and Kayce Thompson; his grandchildren, Megan (Alex) Schmelter, Skyler Myers and Riley Myers; his sister, Robin (Kevin) Mitchell; his nephew, Lang (Christy) Balazer and grand-nephew Logan Balazer; his nieces, Emily (Nick) Panzone and Shannon (Grant) Ames; close family friend Brittany Gorno and his best 4-legged friend, “Bubba.”  John was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Susan Balazer-Henke.

John graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1966 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering.  He then served the nation in the Navy from 1966-1969.  Afterwards, he moved to Columbus and began his career in economic development for Columbia Gas of Ohio.  In 1979, he founded Ohio Industrial Realty, a successful industrial real estate brokerage company.  Later in 2010, he co-founded Ohio Industrial Energy.  He was a trailblazer in business and was greatly respected by all of his colleagues and clients.  John was a member of the Moose Indian Lake OH Lodge, the American Legion, and the Elks.  He was an active supporter of Honor Flight and even provided space for them to operate within the office building that he owned.  He had a unique gift with all children as they were drawn to his child-like spirit, impacting and encouraging them along their individual paths.  One of the ways he portrayed this gift was as a volunteer reader for first graders at Stevenson Elementary School in Grandview Heights for 20 years.  He was an avid and loyal Detroit sports fan, most especially of the Tigers.  John was a gifted athlete who coached his children and grandchildren in baseball, basketball, and golf.  He was the world Tooschball champion in the year 1984.  He also went through a “Racket Evolution'' first taking up handball; then racquetball; then tennis; and finally pickleball where he competed regularly and passionately in the later years of his life.  He was an enthusiastic boater and fantastic captain in both the Gulf waters of Florida and at Indian Lake.  John loved to showcase countless tricks that brought joy to both friends and strangers, and his signature trick was landing the hat-flip with a baseball cap.  He has left a legacy of memories and generosity and will be deeply missed.  The lessons he taught will resonate with those that knew him for their lifetimes and will be passed on by the army of people that he touched.

The family will receive friends for a Celebration of Life at the Pickle Shack located at 3218 US-42 in Delaware, OH on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 11:00 AM.  Attire is casual and a ceremonial pickleball game will be played for those who want to participate.  Food and beverage will be provided as well as a toast to a life well lived.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the charity TO WRITE LOVE ON HER ARMS – www.twloha.com