John Carl Waidner Jr.

Born on December 24, 1933, in Columbus, Ohio, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Patricia (“Patty”) Johnson Waidner; his parents, John and Margaret Waidner; his sister, Rosemary Waidner McLaughlin; and many cherished friends and extended family members.

He is survived by his children, Beth (Michael) Kirwan, John (Amy) Waidner, and Stephanie Waidner; and his grandchildren, Andrew Kirwan, Ellen Waidner, Stuart Kirwan, Lauren Waidner, and Emma Grace Waidner. He also leaves behind many dear friends and extended family who will miss him deeply.

John graduated from Aquinas College High School in Columbus and began his studies at Providence College Seminary. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, he attended The Ohio State University and embarked on a distinguished career in the retail department store industry. His work took him across Europe on buying trips, with Florence, Italy, holding a special place in his heart.

He spent many years with Lazarus and Strouss department stores in Columbus and Youngstown, Ohio, before relocating to Jacksonville in 1983, where he later retired from Bealls Florida department stores. John and Patty made their home in the Mandarin area until her passing in 2009, after which John moved to the Riverside Avondale neighborhood.

A passionate runner and fitness enthusiast, John completed numerous marathons and races, including his favorite - the Peace Race in Youngstown. In Jacksonville, he was a dedicated member of the Winston Family YMCA’s Dawn Patrol class, where he formed lasting friendships.

John was also an avid amateur photographer and lifelong learner. He enjoyed attending the Mandarin Art Festival, auditing classes at the University of North Florida, strolling through Memorial Park, visiting the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, and exploring the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. A lover of music, he was a faithful member of St. John’s Cathedral and a supporter of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Above all, John adored his grandchildren and was a loyal presence at their many school and extracurricular events.

John will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and signature response to any inquiry about his own well-being: “More importantly, how are you?”

Family and friends are invited to visitation hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 17 at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32223. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Mandarin Cemetery on Mandarin Road.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winston Family YMCA, 221 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32202, or St. John’s Cathedral, 256 East Church Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Ortega Gardens Memory Care Community, Haven Hospice, and St. John’s Cathedral for their compassionate care during John’s final months.