While this would normally be the time of year John would begin the designs for his annual production of unique wood Christmas ornaments for the family, his work will remain undone. John passed into eternal life peacefully on October 21, 2026.

Although declining health burdened him the last year, John led a very full and active life. Born and raised in Detroit, John joined the Marine Corps following graduation from St. Mary of Redford High School. Following discharge and receipt of an Award for Heroism, John and his high school sweetheart Mary Bueter married in 1978 and raised three sons: Matthew (Miranda) of Los Angeles, CA; Kevin (Rylee) of Asheville, NC; and Patrick (Marine) in Fairfax, VA.

While serving as a law enforcement officer for the Fairfax County Police Department for 27 years and maintaining outside businesses, he was an active participant in the boys’ lives. From camping trips to building an in-house sound studio or skateboarding ramps, there was always an activity or project on board. Following Mary’s untimely passing in 2002, the family remained in Fairfax until the boys ultimately embarked on their own paths.

John was subsequently blessed to meet Karen Uno of Fairfax and the two of them married in 2008. Karen’s son John became the fourth boy in the family and was affectionally referred to as “Son John.” John and Karen ultimately relocated to Fort Mill, SC, in 2014.

Woodworking was John’s favorite pastime. The lathes and sanders will be silent now and his skilled handiwork will be the last mementos his family will treasure.

John’s spirit will live on through Karen, Matthew (Miranda), Kevin (Rylee), Patrick (Marine), and John Uno (“Son John”). John will also be deeply missed by his dear grandchildren Meri (12) and Levon (10), and his brother Jeffrey (Michelle) of Naples, FL, and Michael (Shelley) of Marysville, MI.

In addition to his wife Mary and other beloved family members, John was pre-deceased by his dear sister Barbara Lynn Huffman of Port Huron, MI.

A memorial service is being planned for Spring 2027 in Greater Charlotte, NC area.

Burial arrangements are being coordinated with Arlington National Cemetery for a later date.

If anyone desires to honor John, he and Karen respectfully request donations be made to the Charlotte Rescue Mission at 915 W. 1st St, Charlotte, NC 28202-1003 or by visiting Charlotte Rescue Mission .

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” John 11:25