John Lloyd Paeltz, Jr.

John Lloyd Paeltz, Jr, resident of Luther, Oklahoma, was born September 12, 1934 in Russellville, Ohio to John Sr. and Mildred Lenora (Clift) Paeltz.  He passed away January 16, 2021 in Edmond, Oklahoma at the age of 86.

Better known to his loved ones as “Papa John” and affectionately referred to as “Grumpy Grandpa”, John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. John will forever be remembered as the linchpin that held a large family together.  He gave advice without judgement and was always willing to lend a helping hand. 

John graduated from Russellville-Jefferson High School in 1952.  He served as a Police Officer for the Columbus Police Department from August 9, 1965 until retiring September 20, 1979.  He went on to work for many years as a long-haul truck driver.  John also spent time as a school bus driver.  Of his varied pursuits, he was most proud of his work as a farmer. During his free time John enjoyed his mornings with friends at the local café.  He enjoyed vintage cars and always had a story about the ones he used to own.  John was a gruff man who was nevertheless kind, and quick with a joke. He shared a sense of adventure with his wife, Angela.  They enjoyed traveling across the United States as well as to several foreign destinations.  John particularly enjoyed visiting Galveston Beach and the winter home they shared in Apache Junction, Arizona.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Mildred; sons, John Lynn Paeltz and Philip Paeltz.  He is survived by his wife, Angela (Nowling) Paeltz of the home; children, Kris White, Paul Paeltz, Linda Balser and husband Larry, Roselita Sutton and husband Patrick, Mike Wilson and wife Tammy, Donald Wilson, Darlene Opat and husband Rick, Kay Marshall, ViAnn Neal and husband Shane, Edna Upton, Esta Paeltz and husband Aaron, J.J. Hernandez and wife Sue, Lauren Villa; brothers, Steve Paeltz and Jim Paeltz and wife Beverly; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will cherish his memory.

John will be laid to rest at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at the Jones I.O.O.F. Cemetery with Reverend Marcellus Fields officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.

“A new command I give you: Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”  John 13:34

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