John Michael Hlay

John Michael Hlay, age 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 11, 2022. John was born in Niles, Ohio on May 21, 1930 to the late Paul and Helen (Santek) Hlay. Also preceding in death was his loving wife of 63 years Jean Faith (Brown) Hlay; and brothers Nick, Paul, and Stephen Hlay. John was a former gridiron fullback playing for coach Woody Hayes and The Ohio State Buckeyes from 1949-1952. In his senior year he was the leading yard rusher of the team and led the Bucks to a 27-7 victory over Michigan at the Shoe. John adored his family and friends hosting countless pool parties with his wife Jean at the home they built in Upper Arlington. Additionally, he and his wife enjoyed tailgating and cheering on the Buckeyes holding and sharing 70 consecutive seasons of football tickets. John also founded and owned Columbus Builders and Fence a home remodeling company that served central Ohio residents. John will be deeply missed by his three children Jill Hlay Voelker, John B. (Jean) Hlay, and Jeffrey P. Hlay; grandchildren Matthew P. (Sarah) Voelker, Lauren N. Voelker, Christopher J. Hlay, Mitchell H. Hlay; and great-grandchild Lilia R. Voelker. Family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00am on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Road, UA 43221. Funeral Service will immediately follow at 11:00am on Saturday, February 19, 2022, interment to follow at Green Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674 or heart.org and Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 310, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences.