John C. Pirtle

John C. Pirtle, age 76, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025 in his home surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 9, 1949 to Knofel and Mary Rose (Didelot) Pirtle. John was the eldest of ten siblings — a role he carried with strength, humor, and unwavering love.

A proud Vietnam War veteran, John served his country with honor and continued to live a life marked by quiet resilience and deep devotion to his family. After his military service, he went on to retire from Ford Motor Company, where he built a long and steady career.

John had a deep love for music, often sharing his talents with those lucky enough to hear him play. He also found joy and peace on the golf course, where his laughter and competitive spirit left a lasting impression on his friends and fellow players.

More than anything, John cherished the time spent with his daughters, grandchildren, and siblings. Whether it was a simple family gathering, a backyard cookout, or just a quiet moment shared, John’s presence was a constant source of warmth, wisdom, and encouragement.

He will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and the love he poured into every relationship in his life.

John's legacy lives on through his beloved family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 20 years, Barbara Pirtle; his father, Knofel Pirtle; his mother, Mary Rose (Didelot) Pirtle; his brother, Joseph Pirtle; his sister, Katie (Pirtle) Wells; his brother, Tony Pirtle; brother-in-law Darrick Hersey; Nephew Eric Paris, Nephew Dustin Fisher.

Survived by his daughters, Bobbi Pirtle and Jennifer Bennett (Randy); his grandchildren, Monica Howe (Kenny), Johnathon Knight, Shane Manship (Brittney), Amber Knable (Jerammi), Derrick Bennett (Rachael), and Tanner Bennett (Chloe); and his siblings, Margaret Hersey, Kathleen Fisher (Carl), Mary Arntz (Rick), Ann Paris (Don), Jan Birdwell (Jim), and Sheila Missi (Marvin); 2 sister-in-laws Jane Pirtle; Debbie Pirtle; brother-in-law Mike Wells; and 6 great grandchildren.

A visitation for John will be held Monday, September 8, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kraft Funeral Service, 708 E. Spring Street, New Albany, Indiana 47150. A visitation will occur Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 708 E. Spring Street, New Albany, Indiana 47150. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM, 708 E. Spring Street, New Albany, Indiana 47150.

John will be laid to rest in St. Mary of the Knobs Cemetery, Floyds Knobs, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John's memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org