John M. Phelps

John M. Phelps “Buddy” “Digger”

BARBERTON--- John M. Phelps, 64, passed away March 3, 2016.

John was born in Wilsondale, W.V and had been a Barberton resident all his life. He was a graduate of Barberton High School Class of 1970 and attended The University of Akron.  He retired from P.P.G. after 20 years of service. He was a member of the C.A.A. and was a past officer in ACRWA Local 1.  He was a US Navy Veteran serving during the Vietnam Era on the USS Grand Canyon. Buddy was a life member and multiple time Past Commander of American Legion Post 449. He loved music and played bass and sang in many bands. Buddy enjoyed playing golf and slots and was a long suffering lifelong Browns fan.

Preceded in death by his parents John Sr. and Ruth; sister Polly; brothers Joe, Brooks and William; John is survived by the love of his life and wife of 22 years Kathryn L. (nee Leach); children Morgan (Kay) Phelps, Rachel (Christopher Bors) Phelps, Jamie (Meghann) Price and Danielle (Mick) Macko; grandchildren Declan and Ian Phelps and Cody and Andrew Murphy; sister Mahala Phillips and Cassie Damavandi; brother Michael Phelps; father-in-law Ray (Ann) Leach Sr.; special friends Garry and Dianna Richardson; and numerous other relatives and friends.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff of 1 West Palliative Care Floor at Summa Barberton Hospital.

Calling Hours Wednesday from 5-8 P.M. at the SILVA-HOSTETLER FUNERAL HOME, 1199 Wooster Rd. West, Barberton. Graveside Service on Thursday, 9:30 A.M. at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. (Please meet at the entrance to the cemetery) In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Legion Post 449, 1090 Kenmore Blvd., Akron, 44314.