Johnny Dean Pence

Johnny Dean Pence, age 66, of Trenton, Ohio, left the loving arms of his wife, Donna, into the arms of Jesus on February 20, 2025, at the Cleveland Clinic of an unexpected aggressive form of Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Johnny was born July 23,1959, to John and Phyllis Pence. He was a 1977 graduate of Madison High School. He dedicated 34 years as a Senior Electronic Maintenance Technician, retiring in January 2025 as the EM&C Safety Coordinator from AK Steel. Known affectionately by many as “Pooh Bear” a nickname that reflected his gentle heart and the warmth he carried with him wherever he went.

But, more than any title he held at work, Johnny's greatest role was being a family man. He was the devoted husband of Donna (Childers), his steady partner and love of 43 years; proud father of Natalie (Eddie) Glaser, as he always said- his #1 daughter. He is the cherished “Papaw Pooh” to Gabbi and Nate Glaser, who were the light of his life. Those two held his whole heart, he was their biggest cheerleader in all activities. Lately, he was proud to teach Gabbi how to play the piano and was looking forward to taking Nate hunting. Life with Papaw Pooh meant camping, fishing, vacations, and playing games, especially if it could be outdoors. And oh how they loved their Papaw, the closeness they shared, seeing each other nearly every day, was a gift not everyone gets. Their love for him was steady, joyful, and full of pride. It was a love returned in full measure.

Johnny also deeply valued his friendships. His buddies were an important and steady part of his life. Weekly golf games at Forest Hills Country Club brought laughter, friendly competition, and stories that lasted long after that final putt. He always looked forward to his annual deer hunting trip and Boundary Waters trip. Both of these trips held a special place in his heart. Recently, he had even joined a hiking club, setting his sights on hiking the Appalachian Trail, a reflection of his adventurous spirit and lifelong love of the outdoors. He spent many years reffing basketball and volleyball games, even reffing a few games with his son-in-law. Johnny also proudly served as an usher at Foundation Community Church.

He is also survived by his loving parents John and Phyllis Pence; his brother Doug (Melissa) Pence; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

Johnny will be remembered for his big heart, his loyalty, his sense of humor, and the way he showed up for the people he loved—whether at ball games, family gatherings, being Mr. Fix It for his daughter, or simply spending time together. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion that will live on in all who knew him. Johnny would challenge us to, “live and enjoy life!”

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Johnny's name to the Logan Pence Memorial Scholarship fund in honor of Johnny's nephew who passed away too young in 2016: https://tinyurl.com/loganpencefund

A visitation for Johnny will take place on Thursday February 26, 2026 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Anderson Funeral Home, 1357 E. Second Street, Franklin, Ohio 45005. Funeral service will take place on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bobby Reed officiating. Burial will take place at Woodside Cemetery.