John F. Van Burskirk

John F. Van Buskirk, formerly a resident of Southgate/Bellefontaine, Ohio passed away, peacefully at the HealthCare-Perry Hospital in Perry, Georgia on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. He was born in Jefferson Township, Logan County, Ohio on January 2, 1934, to the late Glendora and Donald L. Van Buskirk. Growing up in the family home, a short walk to the Zanesfield corporation line.

A 1952 graduate of Zanesfield Monroe School, John joined the U.S. Navy in October 1952 and attended the Naval air school in Norman, Ok. training as an Aviation Mechanic. His service during Korean War operations on the USS Princeton (CV-37) aviation carrier was as a flight deck Machinist Mate testing, maintaining and directing fighter jets stationed at the US North Island Station, San Diego, CA. or anchored Japan. Advancing to Petty Officer-2nd class-AD/R2., USNR R Oct 1960 (9 Oct-1952 - 7 Sep- 1956). He was honorably discharged with many recognition ribbons and awards.

He is survived by his wife Linda, of nearly 67 years in November, of Warner Robins, GA;

Son, John F. (Toli) Van Buskirk II of Warner Robins, GA; daughter. Shawna R. Mikes of Decatur, GA;

four grandchildren, Hannah & Jude F. Van Buskirk, and Hayden & Julia Mikes; his sister-in-law, Margaret Van Buskirk; plus many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by two brothers, D.Richard Van Buskirk, and Terry L Van Buskirk; two sisters, June Wilt, and Genevieve Hagar.

John worked until the closure of Rockwell Manufacturing in Bellefontaine, Ohio, starting in 1957 as hourly and was promoted to General Foreman. until its closure some years later. He was employed with several companies in Supervisory positions….All having closed including Chattanooga, TN, Cincinnati, and Rockwell International, Columbus, OH…After which he joined The Boeing Plant in Macon, GA. (also now closed). The family moved to Warner Robins, GA in 1987.

Always a Reds fan of the “Big Red Machine 1975” and the OSU Buckeyes. A present member of the American Legion, and Elks lodge prior to moving.

His personal time was his many building and construction talents, time planting many trees of interest (Maple and Blue Spruce) seemingly his favorites, enjoying his cars and keeping them shined to perfection. As a child touring the rolling hills of his childhood home territory, mushroom hunting’ which became Mad River Mountain, Ohio’s largest ski slope and resort.

Arrangements are pending in Jefferson Township, Ohio for a private burial at a later date.

‘Peace be with him’! As he completes his journey!

Family composed obituary