John L. Pheral, Jr., 77, of Columbus, IN and Dayton, OH, died Friday January 31, 2025. John was born February 22, 1947, in Scottsburg to John L. and Norma (Law) Pheral, Sr. He was the stepson of Helen (Niemoeller) Pheral. They preceded him in death.
Mr. Pheral was a 1965 graduate of Seymour High School. After graduating, he attended Purdue University before entering the US Air Force, serving during the Vietnam War. He was an electrician and former employee of Vernco and Forster. He was the lead foreman for several major projects, including the building of the Next Gen electric buses in Dayton, OH. Additionally, he was awarded a commendation from the state of Ohio for this project.
John had many interests. He enjoyed traveling domestically and internationally, as well as camping with Sara in their R.V. He loved photography, Nascar, air shows and gardening. He was active with the Boy Scouts as a youth in Seymour. He continued to remain active with the Boy Scouts of America. He was a former member of American Legion Post 24, Columbus, IN, and American Legion Post 487, West Milton, OH.
John also had a love of animals and rescued many over the years. However, his greatest love came from spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving partner of 32 years, Sara Frease of Dayton, OH; sons, Richard (Becky) Pheral of Columbus, and John Alan (Laura) Pheral of Shepherdsville, KY; siblings, Karen Stein of Seymour, Ronald (Teresa) Pheral of Paris Crossing, and Dodie Frease (Gaye) Tuner of Killeen, TX; and an aunt, Sandy Law of Crothersville, IN. Also surviving are grandchildren, Ashlee (Jeremiah) Palmer, Danielle Pheral, Ellen (Mikey) Louallen, and John Matthew and Blaine Pheral; step-grandchildren, Brian (Kiley) Swift and Millie (Shawn) Totten; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, his infant sister, Lora Ann Pheral; and uncle, J.W. Law, preceded him in death.
A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Myers-Reed Chapel. Friends will be received two hours prior to service time. A reception will follow at the American Legion Post 24, Columbus. He will be laid to rest at Crothersville Cemetery at a later date.
Please direct memorials in his name to the Greater Dayton Humane Society or the Indy Honor Flight.
Visit www.Myers-Reed.com to leave a memory or condolence for the family.
Myers-Reed Chapel on 25th St. is serving the Pheral family.