John Maras

John Maras, age 91, of Celina, passed away Thursday, November 3, 2022, at Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.

He was born in Hardieville, Alberta, Canada, on March 27, 1931.  His parents, the late Stephen & Mary (Repasky) Maras, had immigrated from Slovinky, Slovakia.

John grew up in Amsterdam in Jefferson County, Ohio.  He graduated 5th in his class from Bergholz High School, then attended the Coyne Electrical and TV trade school in Chicago. 

John worked in the coal mines for a year.  Then while working in Ohio for a phone company, he met his sweetheart, Doris Ann Ballinger, at the former Connie's Restaurant in Celina.  

He was later employed at the Huffy Bicycle Plant, retiring after more than 31 years of service.   John also did electrical work for others well into his 80th decade.

John and Doris were married on June 14, 1953, and were the parents of two children.  Their son, Jon Alan, passed away on December 7, 2016, and a daughter, Jill Ann, passed away November 18, 2020.  

John was preceded in death by Doris on August 20, 2020.  His two brothers: James and Steve Maras, and a brother-in-law, Larry Sapp, are also deceased.

Surviving are many nieces and nephews, and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Ted (Kay) Ballinger and Doyle “Pete” (Charlene) Ballinger, of Celina, and Linda Sapp of Mendon.

A life member of the Mercer County Sportsmen's Association, John enjoyed fishing in Canada, vacations, and spending time with family and friends. 

John had many friends, and each one was very special to him.  He didn't know a stranger, and would do anything for anyone.  

John loved sharing the heritage of his Slovakian ancestors, his wealth of knowledge, and the stories of his life.

Calling Hours are being held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina, on Tuesday, November 8, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m.  Graveside Rites will follow at Mercer Memory Gardens, with Sam Hellwarth presiding.

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