John Stephen Grischow

John S. Grischow, 58, died on September 9, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully at his North Carolina home with his family by his side.
John was born in Boardman, OH, to John & Louise Grischow. He graduated from Boardman High School in 1983. He was a proud Penguin, earning a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in secondary education as well as master's in history. Later he would earn a Master's of School Administration from University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.
One of his happiest days was at YSU where he met his wife, Stephanie Sanders. Married over 31 years, they would build a beautiful life together, moving from Boardman to Nashville, NC, where they started their family. John's daughters, Katie and Janie, were the center of his world. He loved being their father more than anything.
Most of John's professional life was spent as a teacher, a role he cherished. He took a job in the Nash County School District in the 1990's and remained there for most of his career. His last job was teaching ESL at Hubbard Elementary where he was recently named teacher of the year. John took so much pride in what his kids could accomplish over the school year. We know he'll miss them.
In his free time, John enjoyed reading, writing poetry, and playing Asphalt 8. He always loved music and spent his last days listening to YES, a band that he and his sister had a shared love for. His brother, Brian, treasures the time they spent together and John's advice about life. John's most favorite place was home. Stephanie always made sure their house was filled with love, lots of people, and good food. We are so grateful he could spend his final days there.
John is survived by his wife Stephanie Grischow of Nashville, NC; his daughters Katie Grischow of Boston, MA, and Janie Grischow of Boone, NC; his brother Brian (Sherri) Grischow of Boardman; sister Jackie (David) Leicht; nephews Jonathan Grischow and Jack Leicht; stepmother Cheryl Grischow of Naples, FL; and cousins Andy and Stephen Schengeli of Columbus, OH.
John was preceded in death by his parents Louise Grischow of Boardman; John Grischow of Naples, FL; as well as his grandparents and aunt.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Cornerstone Funeral Home in Nashville, NC. A celebration of life will be held in Boardman at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in John's memory.