John W. Heinz

John W. Heinz of Lewis Center, Ohio, died on May 8, 2024, at age 77. He was born on April 13, 1947, in Kent, Ohio. John is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kathleen Ann; his sisters, Betty (Glenn) Miller of Millersburg, Ohio, and Marilyn Heil of Arlington, Virginia; and two daughters, three stepsons, eight grandchildren, two nephews, and two nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Catherine (McCormick) Heinz, and his brother-in-law Rev. James Heil.

John graduated from West Holmes High School in 1965. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in medical technology from The Ohio State University in 1973, followed by a Ph.D. in clinical chemistry in 1981. He worked as a clinical chemist at OSU for 30 years, retiring in 2004. He served in the US Army from 1967 to 1972 and was a Vietnam veteran.

John was an avid and gifted gardener. He became a Master Gardener through The Ohio State University Extension and served as a volunteer with the Delaware County Master Gardeners Association starting in 2007. In 2022, he was named the Delaware County Master Gardener of the Year for his dedication, expertise, and helpfulness in answering questions, making recommendations, and providing education to local residents. John was also a talented bowler, participating in multiple bowling leagues and tournaments and even winning some awards, and he was a passionate fan and supporter of OSU sports.

Family and friends will remember John’s quiet warmth, dry wit, and generosity. He was always eager to help people and never sought recognition for his good deeds. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

John’s family will receive friends at 3:00 pm on June 5, with a memorial service at 4:00 pm and a reception following. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Ohio State Fund for Scholarships (https://www.giveto.osu.edu/makeagift/details/314845) or the Holmes County Education Foundation (https://www.hcef.net; 114 North Clay Street

Millersburg, OH 44654).