John A. Baran of Akron, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on August 8, 2022 in Stuart, Florida at the age of 102. May he rest eternally in peace as he joins his beloved wife, Lena.

Born January 19, 1920 to Stanley and Mary Baran in Dehue West Virginia; the family relocated to Akron, Ohio when John was one year old.  A first generation American and a child of the Great Depression, John was raised and educated in Akron.  Known to be hardworking and industrious, he left his family at the age of 19, to join the Civilian Conservation Corps founded by Franklin Roosevelt, where he helped to build parks, roads and bridges in Utah.

He returned to Akron, became an apprentice machinist and married the love of his life, Lena Marie Baran.  Their union lasted 77 years. John and Lena were blessed with three children: Patricia, John Jr., and James. In 1944, John joined the U.S. Naval Reserve where he proudly served aboard the U.S.S. Bivin Destroyer Escort 536 during World War II in the Pacific Theater.

Upon his return from the War, he began his career as a machinist with Admiral Machine Company in Barberton, Ohio.  He worked his way up and as the company grew, he became the Vice President and General Manager.  During his distinguished 24-year career, he traveled the world and developed a lifelong appreciation of great food, music, dancing, and adventure.

In 1980 John and Lena retired to Port St. Lucie, Florida. As a lifelong golf enthusiastic, he joined Sandpiper Bay Country Club and spent the next 30 years working on his tan and his handicap with 3 Holes-in-One to show for it.  During his retirement, John enjoyed a time filled with family celebrations, reading great books, traveling, music, and dancing.   His greatest pleasure was found in the time he spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  A connoisseur of fine Single Malt Scotch, Frank Sinatra, and Peanut M & M's, John brought joy to those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.  His kindness and love for life will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

John was predeceased by his wife, Lena and son John Jr. He leaves his daughter Patricia, son James, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren to mourn his passing.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his memory to the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org .

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 11, 2022 at 3:00 pm at Treasure Coast Seawinds Funeral Home in Stuart, FL; a Military Ceremony and Interment will occur on September 12, 2022 at 1:00 pm at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, FL.

Please feel free to share a remembrance or message of condolence with the family through this online guestbook.