John C. Gaertner

John C. Gaertner died unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 in Woodville, Ohio at the age of 71. John was born on March 12, 1953 in Toledo, Ohio to Karl and Pauline Gaertner.

He graduated from Woodward High School in 1971 and went on to graduate from the University of Toledo with a degree in Political Science. After high school, John worked for UPS for several years as well as the post office before finding his career with the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities, retiring after 25 years of service. John was passionate about helping people young and old, advocating for those that needed it most and that is what he loved about the LCBDD.

Later in life, John was fortunate enough to marry his best friend and partner for years, Susan (Kibler) Gaertner. Together they would invest in real estate and purchase their dream home in Barco Quebrado, Costa Rica where they would spend months at a time. John valued relationships, adventure, and a good time until the very end!

John is survived by his sister, Susan (Richard) Taylor of Curtis, Ohio; his brother, George (Pamela) Gaertner of Lambertville, Michigan as well as Sue’s boys, Michael and Stephen Kibler of Florida. Also surviving are 7 nieces and nephews, 13 great nieces and nephews, as well as the countless friends he considered to be family. John never met a stranger. He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan and his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 22, 2024 from 12:00 – 4:30 pm at the Nederhouser Community Hall in Olander Park, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave, Sylvania, Ohio 43560. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Cherry Street Mission Ministries, 1501 Monroe St, Toledo, Ohio 43604.