John E. Bayless, I

Bayless I, John E., 62 - John (Pops/Coach) passed away Tuesday afternoon, July 9th, the same day that he was celebrating the birth of his 8th grandchild, Jackson Ryder Bayless.

John succumbed to a heart attack while fishing with his best friend and wife Susan (Sues he called her). Fishing was a favorite recreational pastime and an important part of his life with Susan and something he loved to share with his children and grandchildren. He loved fishing around Ohio and especially from the Pier at Garden City Beach, SC. It was a special family place for vacations on a regular basis.

Camping at Cutty’s Sunset was also something that he saw as precious time spent with his children, grandchildren and close family friends.

John started his involvement in Ohio youth sports in 1972, when he was an assistant coach for Ravenna Hot Stove. He began coaching in Rootstown in 1980 and continued through 1996. He was the proud recipient of the Cy Butler award in 2000 for his commitment to the youth of Ohio and his community. He loved his time spent as a volunteer coach.

John was born in Bedford, Ohio on July 19, 1950 to Marion and Bernard Bayless. He graduated from Streetsboro High School in 1969. Following in his father’s footsteps he then began his lifelong career as a Sprinkler Fitter, a career that he loved and through which he mentored many others with his passion. A passion that was second to the love that he had for his family.

We cannot let the day pass without celebrating his life. In accordance with John’s wishes we ask that friends and family join us Saturday July 13, 2013 at Shorts Spicer Crislip Funeral Homes fror memorial calling hours from 2 PM until time of memorial services at 5 PM in memory of a life well spent. Following the services , friends and family are asked to attend a balloon lift in Pops honor at Gracie Fields in Rootstown.

The world is better for his having lived. We are better for having known him. Though John’s life may have ended too soon, it was a life complete in so many ways. Pops will forever be loved and cherished by his wife and best friend of 34 years, Susan. He was the loving father of Sons Michael (Beverly), John (Elaina), Andrew (Jen) and Daughter Amy. Pops was a proud grandfather of 8, Trey, Ryleigh, Jackson, Jerome, Alayna, Heaven, Keaton and Bailey. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brothers Paul, Bernie and Alfred. He will be forever missed by his brothers Skip and Bud and sisters Mickey (Al), Norma Jean, Camille, Nancy. The family asks that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be made to The Hope Lodge 11432 Mayfield Rd. Cleveland, Ohio 44106. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.sscfuneralhomes.com .