He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Helen Austin Block, and his daughter Susan K. Block-O’Brien. He is survived by his grandson David Summerlin (wife Chelsea Summerlin) and his great grandchildren, Luke Summerlin, Emma Ellis, and Jameson Summerlin who fondly referred to him as “Papa.”
John graduated from Lake Forest College where he received his B.A. He then went on to Officers Candidate School to join the Navy. He was a Captain in the Navy for 30 years. He also worked for Maxwell House Coffee Company.
John was a member of Unity of Jacksonville Beach Church where he met his significant other whom he dearly loved, Marlo Drake. He was a member of the York Rite Masons, consisting of Royal Arch Masons, the Council, and Knight’s Templar. He was also the Knight Masons, AMD, Sojourners, Hero’s of 76, and his blue lodge was Ribault Lodge as a master mason. John was also involved with the Morocco Shriners.
John will be remembered for his smile and love of life. He enjoyed laughter, fine wines, and walks on the beach. He was a generous soul who loved everyone, was deeply loved, and will be missed.