John Edward Cox Jr.

John Edward Cox, Jr., of Marion, passed away at the age of 70 on Friday, October 10, 2025. He was born in Marion, Indiana, to John and Betty (Suttle) Cox. He married his high school sweetheart, Gina (Ford), and they celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary in December of 2024.

John graduated from Marion High School in 1973. He then completed a four-year sprinkler fitter apprenticeship through Penn State University. John was a union sprinkler fitter for Shambaugh and Son for 38 years, and a proud member of Union 669 since 1979.

John was a true lover of the great outdoors. He found joy in duck hunting in Arkansas, pheasant hunting in Iowa, walleye fishing on Lake Erie, and bass fishing at the Mississinewa Reservoir. He was passionate about his outdoor hobbies and loved mentoring the next generation of outdoorsmen, especially Boston and Tyler. He believed a good day was a walk in the woods with his dog and best bud, Rocko.

He will be remembered for his legendary cooking--fixing the best walleye, deep-fried turkey at Thanksgiving, grilled ribeyes, and French toast. His warmth and generosity were felt most around the table and at his annual Super Bowl party, where he brought people together with good food and great stories.

John is survived by his parents, John and Betty Cox; his wife, Gina Cox; daughters, Heather Reena and Sarah Elizabeth; granddaughter, Carly Elizabeth, lovingly known as "Sweet Baby"; his dog, Rocko; sister, Jill (Robert) Wease; brother, Jeff (Dawn) Cox; sister-in-law, Jayne (David) Morris; and many nephews and nieces.

At John's request, there will be no public visitation or funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Helmets to Hardhats, 815 16th St. NW, Ste. 600, Washington, DC 20006 (www. helmetstohardhats.org).

During his time at Shambaugh and Son, John worked with this organization in transitioning veterans into sprinkler fitters.

Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.

Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.