John Edward Ockerman, aged 79, passed away on September 14, 2025, at his home in Columbus, Ohio. Born on May 21, 1946, in Wheelersburg, Ohio, to parents John and Dorothy (Gifford) Ockerman, John lived a full and vibrant life.
John was a retired security guard who found joy in woodworking and vegetable gardening. He was a 42-year member of the American Legion Post 13 in Pickerington, Ohio, where he loved to attend the Legion’s steak dinners. A member of the National Rifle Association, John also enjoyed fishing, oldies music, pleasuring wine and crafting wood items for a local wine company. His love for old cars, tractors, grilling, and animals was well known, and he cherished listening to the steel guitar.
He is survived by his sisters, Marilyn Warner and Marlene (Larry) Bentley, both of Portsmouth, his long-time companion Susan McCord, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dorothy Ockerman, and his brothers, Kenneth and Gary Ockerman.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 12 Noon at D.W. Swick Funeral Home in Wheelersburg. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon prior to the Funeral Service, with interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Franklin Furnace, Ohio. Military Honors will be provided by James Dickey Post 23 American Legion.