John Gazarek, 71, of North Baltimore, died at 5:32 p.m., Sunday, September 15, 2024, at his residence, surrounded by his family.

He was born on December 10, 1952, in Findlay to the late Joseph and Marian (Stefanka) Gazarek. He married Laura Kirby on November 24, 1972, and she preceded him in death on February 25, 2015.

John is survived by his sons: Marty (Holly) Gazarek of North Baltimore and Matt (Meghan) Gazarek of Perrysburg; brothers: Joe Gazarek of North Baltimore and Tom Gazarek of North Baltimore; sister-in-law, Patti Gazarek of North Baltimore; beloved grandsons: Levi, Gabe, Lane, Owen, Luke, Evan and Joey.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Robert “Fish” Gazarek; sisters: Carol Gazarek and Joanne Britten.

John was a longtime farmer, and former heavy equipment operator for various construction companies. He was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #2633 and Moose Lodge #698. John was an avid Ohio State Buckeye and Green Bay Packer fan, he enjoyed going to the casino, but his greatest joy was attending his grandsons athletic events.

The family would like to thank his sister-in-law, Patti Gazarek for all of the wonderful care she provided for John throughout his illness, as well as Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Holy Family Catholic Church, North Baltimore. Father Art Niewiadomski Celebrant.

Burial will be in New Maplewood Cemetery, North Baltimore.

Visitation will be held from 3-8 p.m., Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Smith-Crates Funeral Home, North Baltimore.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Holy Family Catholic Church, North Baltimore.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.smithcrates.com.