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John Lear Obituary

LEAR John Kelly Lear, age 61, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at Mt. Carmel West Hospital. He was owner and President of Gerlach, Lear & Associates, providing mental health, substance abuse, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) in the Central Ohio area for 30 years. Preceded in death by parents Wayne C. and Harriet F. Lear. Survived by wife of 26 years, Susan B. Lear; mother-in-law, Dora G. Bush; brother, George (Cecille) Lear; sister, Patricia Rentz; nieces and nephews, Tim Lear, Jennifer Sloane, Amy Pablo, Jody A. Coe, Dean Wilcox, and great nieces and nephew. John's life will be celebrated with a memorial service Saturday, January 16, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. at the Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St. Reverend Anne Pairan, officiating. Donations in memory of John may be made to the Franklin County affiliate of the National Alliance of Mental Health. www.namifc.org. Arrangements with O.R. WOODYARD CO.

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

Published by The Columbus Dispatch on Jan. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for John Lear

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June 28, 2010

Mrs. Lear. I was a client of John's for about two years back in the 1990's. He was instrumental in helping me overcome many obstacles I faced. I am now an intern for a counseling agency in Worthington and will obtain my license soon. My desire to be a counselor had much to do with John's example. He was so kind, patient, non-judgmental and helpful. He will be sorely missed.

Bill Pikaart

January 18, 2010

My name is Bill Pikaart. I was a client of John's for 20-plus years. I can't measure what John meant to me. John was a sounding board for my life -- the ups and downs -- he was always there. John, I will miss your friendship and support. Your pal, Bill.

Wendy Thomas-Magbag

January 15, 2010

Mrs. Lear, I was a patient of John for many years as well as several family members of mine. I have known him so long and he was so nice, we actually considered him as if he was part of our family. In 2006 my husband passed away. He was 36 years old and had just started seeing John months before his death. So he got to know my late-husband as well. And when he passed away I went to John for help. He really helped me and would tell me he couldn't even imagine what I was going through but shared a little with me about the two of you. He told me how mine and Chad's relationship reminded him a lot of yours. And you were his best friend and loved you so much that he didn't know what he would do if anything were to happen to you. He helped me so much during such a difficult time and I wish I could help you like he helped me, but I know what you are going through and you will never get over losing your best friend but one day it will get easier. My mom owned a shop by his office in Chillicothe and after I stopped seeing him he would come by the shop and talk to us and bought a candle he loved from the store. We moved to Tennessee and haven't seen John in awhile and we were shocked about the news of his death. Please know that my family and I are thinking of you and we will be praying for you. (John, Thank you for being a good friend and helping me through some of the hardest days of my life. I will never forget you. Love Wendy)

Michel Heroux

January 15, 2010

I was very sad and sorry to read about John’s passing in our local newspaper. I had not seen him since our 30th Class Reunion Picnic in 1996. John was our Senior Class President and an overall great person to be around. If I may speak on behalf of the Streetsboro High School Class of 1966, we offer his family our most heartfelt sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I will have a Mass said for his intention at our local Catholic Church. Upon reading other Guest Book entries, his memory is deeply instilled in the people that he counseled and cared for. God bless you John.

Greg Collins

January 10, 2010

I just heard today that John was gone, and I am so sorry. He got me through some of the most difficult times I have ever had, and probably saved my life. I will not forget him.

Kristi Greathouse

January 7, 2010

I am sorry to hear of John's passing. He helped me more than I can express and will sadly be missed.

James and Krista Alexander

January 6, 2010

We would like to send our heart felt sympthy and thanks for sharing John with us to John's wife and family. I (Krista) would not be here today and moving forward if it was not for John's caring,help,time and great compassion.

Ginny/Larry

January 6, 2010

Sue,
Larry and I were very sorry to hear of John's passing. I am sure he has helped many clients over the years, and they will miss him as well. I feel particularly bad when someone passes before they reach retirement age,a time we all look forward to. May he rest in peace.

January 5, 2010

It makes me so very sad to hear of John's passing. He was a wonderful man who helped me and many others through difficult times. Even though I was just a patient, I thought of him as a friend. He was kind in his questioning and so easy to talk to. My heartfelt condolences to his family. He is gone too soon. Sincerely, Ila Hennig

A Guest

January 5, 2010

During your time of mourning, I would like to express my sincere condolence at the loss of your loved one. May the tender mercy that God has always shown be with your family now so you will know that you are not alone and may the prayers of others help in some small way to bring you strength, comfort and courage each day . Many words will be expressed, yet we know God can and will express and provide to you and your family everything that is needed to care and sustain your hearts at this sad time. Isaiah 41:10,13.

January 4, 2010

Susan - we are so sorry to hear of John's passing. Please accept our condolences. If you need anything let us know

Nels & Dora

January 4, 2010

JOHN YOU WILL BE MISSED BY A LOT OF PEOPLE, I KNOW THAT YOU REALLY HELP ME THROUGH SOME TRYING TIMES IN MY LIFE. SHEILA AUSTIN(KW CHILLICOTHE,OH)

Sharon Custer

January 4, 2010

On behalf of the staff of BMI Federal Credit Union we send our sincere consolences. John provided exceptional, caring services to our staff for many years.

January 3, 2010

Susan - So very sorry to hear of John's passing. Everyone here at the Wilkins Building sends their condolences. Ron Wilkins

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