John Owen Kunkler

STOW - John Owen Kunkler passed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 12, 2026. He was born in Rittman, Ohio to Clayton and Vivian Kunkler on May 12, 1944, and lived there though his school years. John earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Kent State and later completed a master’s degree in counseling, as well as certification in educational administration. During his career John worked as a teacher, football coach, counselor and high school principal serving in the Rittman, Celina, and Stow-Monroe Falls City Schools and Walsh Jesuit High School.

Though John was a quiet man, his love of people of all ages resulted in many long lasting friendships and avenues of service. As a member of Chapel Hill Church, he served as an elder, deacon, and a small group leader. As a lover of music, John faithfully sang in the church choir and he delighted in being a member of the Hudson Community Chorus. As a friend, he enjoyed model trains, playing pool, golfing, and breakfasting with his guys.

At heart, John was a family man who received the greatest joy as Dad to Andrew (Kiley) and Brian (Megan) and as Papa to seven wonderful grandchildren: Evelyn, Nora, Willard, Levi, Isaac, Clayton, and Rex. For fifty-eight years he was a faithful and generous husband to his wife, Barbara. By his family and many friends, John will be greatly missed.

You are invited to calling hours at Redmon Funeral Home 3633 Darrow Rd, Stow OH 44224 on Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 5PM to 7PM, and to a memorial service at Chapel Hill Church 1160 Howe Ave, Cuyahoga Falls OH 44221 on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 10AM. A private committal service will follow at the Rittman Cemetery.

The Kunkler family owes a debt of gratitude to the many wonderful caregivers and staff at Maplewood Senior Living where John spent the last sixteen months of his life and to those at Crossroads Hospice who ministered so lovingly to him during that time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be given to Chapel Hill Church 1160 Howe Ave, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221, Garden City Church 350 S. Portage Path, Akron OH 44320, Crossroads Hospice 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr (Suite E) Green, OH 44685, Maplewood senior living HEART foundation 55 Green Farms Rd Westport, CT 06880, or the charity of your choice.