John V. Barbo Sr.

John V. Barbo Sr., 90, of Mentor, passed away Thursday, December 10, 2020 at home, surrounded by his family. He was born June 24, 1930 in Cleveland to the late Frank and Grace Barbo. John was a Veteran of the Korean War and after his discharge started working at Ohio Bell as a foreman for over 35 years before his retirement. Upon his retirement, John and his wife, Mary spent many hours in the car traveling around the country, something raising 6 children never allowed them to do. John could always be found at a baseball diamond or football field in Willowick, donating his time coaching his kids. Everybody in Willowick knew Coach Barbo. He was very involved in fixing donated toys with his Pioneer friends that could be given to charitable organizations after they spent long hours getting them working again. It was a real joy for him seeing the smiles on the kid’s faces. John was in a Bowling league for many years in Wickliffe and also loved to fish and play cards with his friends. He was very devoted to his faith and was an active member of St. Mary Magdalene for 60 years. He worked hard his whole life to make sure he was able to give his family the gift of a great education and supply them with everything they needed to become the adults they are today. He loved his children, grandchildren and great grandchild with all his heart. His trusted cat companion, Pepper, was his life. Survivors include his children, Mike (Barbara) Barbo, Rick (Shawn) Barbo, Mary Grace (Dave) Bernert, Rita (Tommy) Bridges, Tom Barbo and John (Nancy) Barbo; grandchildren, Sarah (Greg), Nathan, Allison (Gray), Christopher, Haylee, Anthony, Samantha (Anthony), Danielle (Jeff), Rachel (Alec), Matthew, TJ (Diane), Michael, Alex and Luke; great grandchild, Julia Louise; sister, Carmela Rinaldi; sister in law Lorie Hart, many loving nieces and nephews, lifelong friend, Al Somrack and loving cat companion, Pepper. Preceding John in death are his wife, Mary C. Barbo; grandson, Tyler Bridges and siblings, Della Williams, Robert Barbo and Frank Barbo. Private family services were held, with burial taking place in All Souls Cemetery, Chardon. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in memory of John to Lake Humane Society 7564-E Tyler Boulevard, Mentor, Ohio 44060 or to Heartland Hospice 4807 Rockside Rd., suite 110, Independence, Ohio 44131 Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. Please offer condolences at www.brunners.com.

John V. Barbo Sr.

June 24, 1930 - December 10, 2020