John Anthony Berdy, Jr.

“Take not more than you give along the way and above all, serve this world with honor and compassion . . . so when you make your mark on the earth, let it be the mark of a good man.” W. Moeller. TALLMADGE - John Anthony Berdy, Jr., made his mark on this earth as a really good man. Steadfast husband to Rosemary for more than 60 years, proud father of Beth (Rick), Debbi, and David, and generous “Papa” to Kristyn, Challise, Jacob, Becca, Jonathan, and Matthew, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, courage, and tremendous kindness. He loved sports, having served as a Tallmadge Little League coach, high school athletics umpire, and most notably, one of the longest running referees in University of Akron Football history; he gave the team 47 seasons. John continued to call games from his armchair recliner line of scrimmage until August 20, 2022, when he crossed the goal line one last time. John never saw a stranger and relished seeing everyone smile. From the candy in his pockets at church, to the popcorn he made for neighbors and friends, he was constantly giving away simple treasures. He served his country with honor in the United States Marine Corps and his community with compassion as a longstanding parishioner of Chapel Hill Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. John, Dad, Papa, and Uncle, Jr., will be desperately missed for reasons too plentiful to recount; he will be missed for being exactly what the world needs more of: an extraordinarily good man. Family and friends may call at Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, Ohio 44224, on Thursday, August 25, from 5 to 7 PM. A celebration of John’s life will take place on Friday, August 26, at 11 AM, with luncheon to follow, at Chapel Hill Church, 1160 Howe Avenue, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44221. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Chapel Hill Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.