John James Olesick

John was married to his beloved wife, Janice, for 46 years. He was the proud father of Kate (Ryan) Jelle and Pattie (Kyle) Roush, and carried the memory of his late son, Andy, in his heart. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Walter and Vivian Olesick, John is survived by his siblings, Janice (Jim) Massey, Jim (Louise) Olesick, Fran (Mark) Chada, Judy (Minville) Thompson, and Glenn (Jill) Olesick.

Family was everything to John. He was Uncle John to many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, but his favorite title was undoubtedly Papa to Lucille and Andrew Roush, and Isaac, Logan, and Hazel Jelle. He loved his family deeply and took immense pride in the relationships he built with each of them.

John and Jan lived life to the fullest, sharing adventures and making memories in Ohio, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, and Florida. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, golf, and caring for his yard, but he was happiest outdoors and on the water—at Middle Bass Island, aboard his houseboat on Piedmont Lake, by his pool in Florida, or on the beach with his grandchildren.

John spent 33 years with Sherwin-Williams Paint Company, earning the respect of his colleagues and enjoying the opportunity to mentor younger generations. A natural leader, he stood up for what he believed was right, even when it meant going against the norm. After retirement, he worked for Chatham Township doing what he loved—cutting grass. In Florida, he stayed involved in his community through his neighborhood homeowners association and golf leagues.

John had a generous heart and was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. His time as Santa Claus brought joy to countless children and became a cherished part of his life. Christmas was also an opportunity to honor his Polish heritage, a tradition he held dear. John’s life will be remembered not by his passing, but by the relationships he built, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. He leaves an immeasurable hole in the hearts of those who knew him, along with lasting memories of his unmistakable laugh, his wisdom, and his unbelievably good hugs.

The family invites all who knew and loved John to share stories and memories on November 27, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the home of Pattie and Kyle, 24111 State Route 58, Wellington, Ohio 44090.