John Paul Planchock

Beloved Child of God

March 26, 1955 - November 1, 2025

John Planchock, age 70, of Morganton, NC, passed away on November 1, 2025.

He was born in Salem, Ohio to Daniel and Mary Planchock.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his step-father, Paul Wallace; his sisters, Judy Hepler and Ellen Fidoe and her husband, Harry; and brothers, Jerry Planchock and Pete Planchock.

Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Marianne Levison; sister-in-laws, Norann Planchock and Barbara Planchock; brother-in-law, Larry Hepler; numerous nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; and friends. In particular, was his love for his great nephews, Ezra and Owen, whom never failed to bring a smile to his face.

John worked an impressive 42 years at Davidson Trucking as a mechanic on heavy-duty trucks. Early in his career he was also a local truck driver. John loved to travel, having visited 45 states and Ontario, Canada. He remembered with fondness family camping trips out West to the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. His favorite place was the beautiful Two Medicine Lake in Glacier National Park. He was a die-hard fan of Ohio State’s football team, but also enjoyed watching pro and college baseball, basketball, and

football. John had an uncanny recall for sports stats. John enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found walking or biking wherever he lived. Having been raised in a Christian household, he strongly believed in God. In Ohio, he was a member of Damascus Friends Church. After moving to North Carolina, he attended Maggie

Valley United Methodist Church in Maggie Valley, then First Advent Christian Church in Morganton. He prioritized church and Bible studies. His favorite hymn was “Blessed Assurance”. Although quiet in nature, John was a great listener, enjoyed his friendships, and liked his humorous one-liners. He humbly touched the lives of so many people. He found a home at Grace Ridge Retirement Community, relishing his interactions with residents and staff

members. He particularly enjoyed talking to Billy, Bailey, and his “best buddy”, Lisa. He also enjoyed many visits from his friend, Jim Miller.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Ridge Retirement Community in Morganton, NC on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Patrick Bradshaw of

First Advent Christian Church officiating. Following the service, there will be a gathering in the Table Rock Room.

Should you desire to make a gift in John’s memory, you can send your donation to the First Advent Christian Church, 211 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655, or to the Blue Ridge Healthcare Foundation, C/O Grace Ridge, 500 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655 (put Grace Ridge Endowment Fund in the memo line).

Kirksey Funeral Home of Morganton, North Carolina is serving the family.