John Alvin Weinland

John Alvin Weinland, (Jack) born April 16 1953, died peacefully October 3 2017, surrounded by his beloved family. He had fought a long and valiant war, including battle after battle with his own body. He lost the war to cancer.

John’s survivors had many fond nicknames for him: Lazarus, Gentle Giant, Amazing Jack, Pops, Big John, but his most beloved title was “Daddy.”

Jack was beloved by all for his sense of humor, his quiet faith, his faux-irreverence, and his joy in teaching others. John lived his life in the service of others, consistently putting the needs and happiness of his loved ones far above his own. He was a devoted husband and father, dedicating his whole heart to raising his children to emulate his gentleness and grace. He never missed a soccer game, concert, or school play, instilling in his children the belief that, with determination, they could conquer any obstacle. His favorite adage in the face of adversity was “don't let the bastards win.”

Jack’s closest survivors include his loving wife, Mary Elizabeth Shal Weinland (“Beth”), his precious son, Christopher John Shal Weinland, (“Chris”), his adorable daughter-in-law, Katherine Stephanie Weinland (“Kate”), and “Daddy’s Little Girl”, his daughter Elizabeth Ann Shal Weinland (“Lisa”).

Other survivors include: brother, Jeff Weinland (Jeannie), and his three children, special cousin, Marcia Weinland, and a host of other Weinland cousins. Jack is also deeply beloved by his in-laws, Mother-in-Law, Alberta Shal, Sister-in-Law, Deb Nogle, and her two children, God-daughter, Stephanie Nogle, Sister-in-Law, Evelyn Held and family, Brother-in-Law, Larry Shal, Sister-in-Law, Ruth Bell (Mike) and their two daughters, Sister-in-Law, Jeannie Daunch and her two children, Brother-in-Law, Dave Shal (Jill) and their four children.

Finally, John is survived by a host of grateful Boy Scouts of America. Many have fond memories of going to camping trips in the ScoutMobile. John was the shining example of the scout laws: trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. He served as Troop Committee Member and Assistant Scout Master, completing a rigorous scout leadership training, Okama. John took special pride in the many who rose to the BSA’s rank of Eagle Scout. Notable among these is his son, Chris, and his brother, Jeff.

Jack’s faith was deep, sustaining him through all of life's many challenges. He was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ). His childhood church was Fourth Avenue Christian Church. At his adult church, He served in any capacity needed, such as deacon or choir member. He loved being a Vacation Bible School teacher at Christ Lutheran Church. In later years, work interfered with worship, but we knew he was a Christian by the love he showed everyone he knew.

John attended college on the GI bill. He earned an Associate Degree in Law Enforcement from Columbus Technical Institute as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in business from Park College. John’s military skills applied to college and to his extensive work in retail sales. Among his employers were Field and Stream, Lazarus/ Macy’s, Toys R Us, Southard Supply, and others.

John's resume reflects his education, his military service, and his work in the business world. His favorite role was stay-at-home Dad but a close second was his twelve years in the United States Air Force Ohio National Guard. A military police officer, John rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant. Based at Rickenbacker Air Force Base, he loved traveling to Germany, Panama, and to Air Force bases in the United States. He served as Flight Chief, Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge, and Drill Sergeant in charge of training and armory. He was disappointed when the 121st security police was called to active duty so infrequently. John took great pride in serving his country well.

Jack was a genuinely good man and he lived his life by example.