JOHN FRANCIS MASTERSON

John Francis "Jack" Masterson, age 77, of Concord Township, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at the end of February.

Jack was born on January 24, 1949 at Saint Ann's Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Michael J. Masterson, of Achill Island, Ireland, and the late Helen B. Masterson (nee Pitonyak), of Pennsylvania. He was raised in the Cleveland area, where he spent much of his life and built lasting connections through his work, service, and community involvement.

Jack was a devoted and beloved brother to Thomas M. Masterson (Sandra). He was a loving and dedicated father to his children, Shannon Masterson (Brian), Bridget Murphy (Curtis), Jean Masterson (David), and Jeffrey Masterson. He was a kind uncle to Katie (Aamer) and Keith (Rocio) Masterson; a cousin to many; a proud grandfather to Liam Sawicki, Jonathon, Rowan, Fallon, and Brinn Bass; and Josh, Nick, and McKenzie Murphy, all of whom brought him immense joy. Nancy Willey, and her sweet dog Sophie, provided Jack with companionship and adventure for more than the last decade. More than anything, Jack deeply loved his children and grandchildren, and family was always at the center of his life.

Jack led a distinguished professional life marked by integrity, curiosity, and public service. He began his career as an award-winning reporter and investigative journalist, earning recognition for his commitment to truth, accountability, and responsible journalism.

Jack's academic accomplishments reflected his lifelong love of learning. An avid student, he earned a Bachelor of Journalism from Ohio University, a Masters of Business Administration from Cleveland State University, and Bachelor of History from Kent State University. He continued to explore a variety of subjects outside of his academic endeavors and holds expert certifications in several fields.

After earning his MBA, Jack transitioned into public finance and administration. He served as Finance Director for several cities in the Cleveland area and later as Business Director for Medina County Library. He was widely respected for his thoughtful leadership, analytical skill, and dedication to public service. Throughout his varied career, Jack received numerous awards and professional recognition reflecting both his expertise and strong work ethic.

Outside of his professional life, Jack had many passions. He was an amateur photographer with a keen eye for detail. He was an amateur historian who loved studying history and a family genealogist whose curiosity encouraged him to uncover his family's roots and extended family tree. He was an avid traveler who enjoyed discovering new places, and he also found great peace in the outdoors, appreciating nature and quiet moments of reflection.

Jack was deeply involved in Alcoholics Anonymous, an organization that played an important and meaningful role in his life, He began working the program in 1980 and cherished his sobriety, which he regarded as one of his most important accomplishments. through his involvement with AA, and their commitment to service, honesty, and accountability, Jack offered encouragement, wisdom, and compassion, quietly making a lasting and meaningful impact in many people's lives.

Jack will be remembered for his intelligence, generosity, dedication to service, and deep love for his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched as a journalist, public servant, mentor, father, grandfather, brother, companion, and friend.

FUNERAL MASS SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2026 AT 10:00 A.M. AT ST. COLMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2027 W. 65th ST., CLEVELAND, OH 44102. Interment Calvary Cemetery. FRIENDS RECEIVED AT THE ZEIS-McGREEVEY FUNERAL HOME, 16105 DETROIT AVENUE, LAKEWOOD, OH 44107 FRIDAY 4:00 - 7:00 P.M.

www.ZMFH.com

Zeis-McGreevey Funeral Home and Cremation Service
16105 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107
(216) 221-0220