John J. Wessel

I had Mr. Wessel my 8th grade year at Forge. Throughout the semester, we all got to know him very well and I became comfortable enough with opening up with the mental side of sports and the struggle I was having. I was nervous to go in as a freshman and potentially not make the basketball and softball teams but he helped me through all the nervous moments and really taught me how to control the mental side of sports. He continued to check up on me everyday when we would see each other in the...

I want to offer my deepest and heartfelt condolences to John´s family. I will always remember him fondly for the times we drove around in High School listening to bands like Static-X or Powerman 5000. He was a big man with an even bigger heart. I´ve made a donation in his memory to NAMI Greater Cleveland.

So sorry for your loss Carol and family. May John be at peace with Uncle John and Aunt Joan..... love Sarah Parken

I worked with John at Greenbriar when he coached with me in girls track. He was substitute teaching at that time. We were so happy to have someone to help us coach shot and disc. The kids admired him. When I was transferred to Valley Forge John welcomed me into the health and PE department and he helped me so much to learn the high school curriculum. He was always kind and patient, especially when I needed help with the always-changing technology. He made me a better teacher. I enjoyed...

Deepest condolences to my niece Carol and her family We met John on a visit to the USA from England, it was a privilege and we will always remember the kindness he showed to us during our great visit RIP John you will be missed Aunt Sylvia & family England

Coach Wessel is the sole reason myself and countless others fell in love with the weight room. The only thing stronger than Coach Wessel was his love for all of us. A true gentle giant. May he rest in peace.

Mr Wessel was the gentlest giant and a great person to everyone he interacted with. A very knowledgeable person as well who educated so many about sports to health and wellness. Will be missed.

I knew John first as a student and then as a colleague. He was always smiling and honestly one of the kindest people I've ever met. Such a gentle giant... I loved talking to him in the hallways, especially when he talked about his family-- his face would light up when he talked about his children. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones- he will be greatly missed.