John E. Snell, 87, of Lodi, died Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at Hospice of Medina County. He was born May 7, 1925 in Lodi to Ralph and Zorah (Fetzer) Snell and was a lifetime resident, graduating from Lodi High School in 1943.
He served with the U.S. Army during WWII in the Northern European Operation as a staff sergeant with the 89th Chemical Mortar Battalion.
He received an associate degree in floriculture from Ohio State University and a certificate of design from Tommy Brights School of Design in Chicago. As a 2nd generation owner of Spring Hill Greenhouse, he developed the wholesale and retail business. In 1973 he attended Kent State University and received his teaching certificate in order to serve as the first horticulture teacher at the Medina County Vocational Center. He retired from teaching in 1989.
John served his Lodi community throughout his life by being an active member of the Methodist Church, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, Chamber of Commerce, Village Council, Board of Public Affairs, Tree Commission, Planning Commission, and 51 year member of Lodi Rotary Club.
Johns greatest joys in life were his family, “posies”, travel, and music. A lifetime singer and proficient whistler, John enthusiastically performed in numerous county choirs. “He who sings prays twice.”
He is survived by Clara, his wife of 62 years; children, J. Timothy, Jan (Greg) Whitney, James (Nancy), Scott (MaryBeth); nine grandchildren, Katherine (Luke) Soper,
Jacob, J. Alexander, Emily, Sara, Daniel, Jack, Elizabeth, Emma; and sister, Mary Albright of Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Evalyn Ruder, Mildred Snell, Walter Snell, Dora Budd, and Edgar Snell.
Funeral service will be held Monday, November 5, 2012 at 11 A.M. at the Leroy United Methodist Church, 6777 Park Circle, Westfield Center, OH 44251. Pastor David Rittgers will officiate. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Lodi. Visitation will be Sunday, November 4, 2012 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. at Parker & Son Funeral Home, 210 Medina St., Lodi (330-948-1122).
Memorial contributions may be made to the Leroy UMC Choir, or Hospice of Medina County, 5075 Windfall Rd., Medina, OH 44254.
Online tributes may be left at www.parkerfuneralhomes.com.