John E. Herrnstein

CHILLICOTHE : John Ellett Herrnstein peacefully passed on at 12:03am, October 3, 2017, with his beloved wife at his bedside and surrounded by his family.

John was born on March 31, 1938, in Hampton Virginia to William and Mary (Ellett) Herrnstein. John married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Harness, 60 years ago, who survives.

John is also survived by 5 children, 14 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. His children are: John (Patti) Herrnstein, Susan (Dan) McManus, Karen Rinehart, Seth (Karen) Herrnstein, and Kristin Cooper. His grandchildren are: Katie (Rob) Vizmeg, Kara (David Boylan) Herrnstein, Chad Herrnstein, Trent (Yasmine) Herrnstein, Sierra McManus, Nick McManus, Logan (Molly) Rinehart, Danika Rinehart, Jeremy (Brittanie) Herrnstein, Kelsey (Chris) Fuller, Megan Herrnstein, Justin Herrnstein, Jordan Herrnstein, Paul Cooper, Avery Scianamblo and Madison Scianamblo. He is also survived by his brother, William (Susanne) Herrnstein III and several nieces and nephews. John was pre-deceased by his parents and by his grandson, Dustin Rinehart.

After moving to Chillicothe at the age of nine, John went on to graduate from Chillicothe High School in 1955 where he was an all-state athlete in football, basketball, baseball, and track. John graduated from the University of Michigan in 1960 after a distinguished athletic career as captain of the football team and pitcher/outfielder on the baseball team. John was drafted by the Baltimore Colts of the NFL but chose a career in baseball where he played first base and outfield for the Philadelphia Phillies Organization for 7 ½ years, as well as time with the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs.

Following his baseball career, John returned to Chillicothe where he worked in finance until his retirement in 2011 from Janney Montgomery Scott Investments. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Chillicothe/Horizon Telephone Company for many years.

John loved his city of Chillicothe and volunteered for the betterment of his community. He was twice President of the United Way-Ross County. He was on the Board of Directors for the Good Samaritan Food Network. He served as co-chairman of the Chillicothe City School District Building Levies for both the High School/Jr. High buildings and the Elementary Schools that are currently under construction. John was also chairman of the Original Levy Committee for the Chillicothe Parks and Recreation Department, which has enabled the Department to have a guaranteed income.

Much of his leisure time was spent with his family, playing and coaching various sports, especially baseball and tennis, and taking daily walks or cycling with his wife. Vacations typically centered around hiking, trekking or cycling.

John's family wants to thank his many wonderful health care providers for their excellent care, as well as his friends for their thoughts, prayers, calls and visits during the past months. Per John's wishes and consistent with his modest demeanor, there will be no calling hours. A small, private memorial will be held at a future date.

Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME. You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chillicothe Gazette on Oct. 5, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for John Herrnstein

Sponsored by Ware Funeral Home.

13 Entries

Skip Hildebrand

December 1, 2017

I just heard of John's passing and am very saddened by this unexpected news. While I do not know John's family my prayers are with him. I played football with John both at CHS and at the University of Michigan. John was a super inspiration and friend to me and I will always cherish the memories of our times together.

Jeff Kern

October 16, 2017

My sincere condolences to the entire Herrnstein family, I know he was loved and will be truly missed. I was blessed to be a part of his family growing up in Chillicothe and Mr. Herrnstein was one of my idols, both in life and athletics. I will add prayers of peace as you celebrate a Great man's life.

Cindy Anderson

October 14, 2017

Barb and family,
My heart and prayers are with you and your family. John was such a wonderful person. Jim thought the world of John and always enjoyed talking to him whether it was sports, politics, or John's experiences during his playing days. Jim collected baseball cards and had several of John's cards. Jim was so thrilled when John graciously signed his baseball cards. Though Jim would be sad that John has passed, I feel sure he will be there happy to greet Herk and talk baseball, sports and politics again.

I also remember the years that John and I worked together, and how supportive and kind he was to me. It was a honor and pleasure to have known and worked with John.

You and John are a great example of what love, marriage, family, life can be.

God bless and keep you and your family, Cindy Anderson

Bobbie-Jo and Dale Harris

October 7, 2017

Our favorite memories of John are the walks he and Barbara took near our house on game days, both wearing sweatshirts---hers an Ohio State University and his a University of Michigan. Hand in hand they strolled, obviously neither annoyed by the other's competing sweatshirt! Charming to see. What a lovely couple. Sending much sympathy to Barbara and his children.

Ken Melvin

October 7, 2017

John was my baseball coach in high school. All quality and grace.

jym ganahl

October 6, 2017

I was so in awe of spending time with him on a vacation...All I wanted to do was talk baseball and he was so obliging to me. I will never forget the friendship and still have his baseball card. Prayers for you and family

As with many young men in Chillicothe, John Herrnstein was a "hero".

John Peck

October 6, 2017

I recall John as being a quality young man and an outstanding athlete. We were on the track team together and he was inspirational to me and all of his team mates. He was a leader. When my younger brother, Jerry Peck, passed away a few years ago, I ended up with a football that was autographed by John. He was admired by all who knew him. By the way, that football is still here in my office.
John Peck, CHS Class of '56',

Donn Overly

October 6, 2017

My condolences to the Herrnstein Family.
Sorry for your loss Karen.

Michael Henry

October 5, 2017

I didn't know John personally. But only through the stories I have heard or read. Prayers for God's comforting for the family.

Ronda Kinnamon

October 5, 2017

My sympathy to the family and all who loved him. Peace.

Dave Stitt

October 5, 2017

Had John as a teacher at Catholic Central High School. He was a very good teacher. Made the work fun. May he Rest in Peace.

Sharon (Thomas) Ward

October 5, 2017

John was closer in age to my brother W.A. (Tom) Thomas (who also passed away recently in Chillicothe), and I seem to recall his name from that time when they were both at CHS, although I'm lacking in any personal memories of him. I was 6 years younger and had moved away by the time he returned after his athletic career, so I don't believe I ever had the pleasure of meeting him . I'm impressed by his wonderful accomplishments and service to my former city, and for the same kind of humility and lack of pride about his experiences that my brother displayed about his own major contributions to society. I think the author of the remarks from the Gazette may be correct about these strong values that were taught through our school years in Chillicothe. I'm glad he had the opportunity to pay back through the volunteering he did with the district in later years. My condolences and blessings to his precious family. He certainly has set a fine example for his children and many grandchildren! Rest now in peace.

Jo Ann Parnell

October 4, 2017

My condolences to Barbara and family. It was an honor to have known him. He will be missed.

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