John Haas

He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Elaine (Fyffe) Haas; children, Laura (Brian) Alloway and John (Megan) Haas; grandchildren, John, Maya, Alia and Delaney; brother, Ray (Mary Ellen) Haas; cousin, Sharon (John) Huskey; along with brothers and sisters-in-law, many nephews and nieces, and other family.

John was born on November 14, 1943 in Pennsylvania to John and Dene Haas. Active in Boy Scouts throughout his childhood with his father as scout leader, John developed a love of nature that he often shared with his children later in life during camping trips, hikes and fishing. He also shared his love of the Pittsburgh Steelers and his passion for football, which came from his own mother.

Following his high school graduation, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was ultimately stationed at Rickenbacker Air Force Base in Columbus where he trained as a mechanic. Little did he know that this first job out of high school would introduce him to both his future career - and his future wife.

While in Columbus, he met and married the love of his life, Elaine. He was soon introduced to her brothers and sisters and became part of the extended Fyffe family. They had two children, Laura and John, and settled in Gahanna.

His spark to learn to fix just about anything took hold in his career. He spent many years in maintenance, working his way up to foreman and supervisor, ultimately retiring from Anheuser Busch after 23 years.

Once retired, John took on his golf game with gusto. He and Elaine enjoyed the winter sun in Florida, and he like to take his gift to fix things and resell them. John developed a special bond with his grandchildren, as he and Elaine helped to care for them during the day when they were babies.

John was never happier than spending time with his family. Annual family reunions took him all over the country to visit extended family and were the highlight of his year. He always cheered on his kids and grandkids. Whether it was a good grade, practice, game, performance or graduation, he was their biggest fan.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 4 - 7 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 6 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., with a funeral service immediately following at 12 p.m. at Schoedinger Northeast Chapel, 1051 E. Johnstown Road, Gahanna. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.