John was born on July 24, 1951, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late John Back Sr. and Shirley (Morley) Back.
John was a hardworking man whose quiet strength was matched only by his gentle heart. He never lost his playful sense of humor, even in his final days, continuing to make those around him laugh when they needed it most. He was a devoted father, a proud Papaw and Great-Papaw, and a man who showed his love through his presence, hard work, and unwavering care for his family. His legacy of love, humility, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He is survived by his children: Michelle (Rich) Zellner, Kelly (Ralph) McClain, Angie Henke, Bryan (Vickie) Banks, Kimberly Carroll, Heidi Back, John Back III, and Tony (Becca) McCune; a sister, Althea Back; along with numerous beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will deeply miss him.
He was welcomed into Heaven by the love of his life, his beloved wife, Sylvia (Banks) Back. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John Back Sr. and Shirley Back; a child, Bobbi Jo; his sister, Susan (Back) Teeter; a brother, Samuel Back; a daughter-in-law, Sharon Back; and his grandsons, Justin Banks and Levi Carpenter.
The family finds comfort in knowing that while his earthly work is complete, his legacy lives on through every generation that was blessed to call him Dad, Papaw, Great-Papaw, and friend.
We would like to give special thanks to his “Power Rangers”, Kimberly Carroll, Jack Layton, Angie Henke, Tony McCune, Sis and John Carpenter for their love for dad in his final days. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful hospice team at Pathways for their care and compassion.
A celebration of John's life, followed by burial, will be held at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 2:00 pm. Pastor Dink Porter will officiate the service. Family and friends are invited to gather beginning at 1:00 pm to honor a man whose character made a special impact on all who were lucky to know him. To know him was to love him.
