John A. Panagiotis

John Angelo Panagiotis, 73, of Bellevue, died Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at home, with his loving wife, Cheryl, by his side.
He was born April 18, 1951 in Cleveland, son of the now-deceased Nicholas Panagiotis and Beulah Georgantas. After their father died in 1957, John and his brother George were raised by foster parents William and Kathleen Carnahan of North Fairfield, who loved and cared for them like their own children.
Baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in 1962, John loved to read the Bible, attend meetings at the Kingdom Hall, and share his faith with others. He especially enjoyed discussing Bible prophecies about the time when God will eliminate wickedness, suffering and death, transform the earth into a paradise, and bless righteous people with perfect health and happiness.
John graduated from South Central High School in 1969.
He married the former Cheryl Carpenter on Jan. 31, 1977 in Norwalk, and together they raised their three children, Timothy, Nicholas and Christina. The family moved to Bellevue in 1998.
After high school, John assisted with surveying for Arthur Burras and Associates. He then worked as an industrial electrician at Sheller Globe, Motor Panels and Mayflower Vehicle Systems, and for a time owned and operated his own repair business, specializing in appliances and refrigeration.
In addition to his spiritual pursuits, John greatly enjoyed his family and playing chess and card games.
During his seven-year battle with cancer, John displayed courage and stayed positive, serving as an inspiration for many as he steadfastly held to his spiritual routine.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children and their spouses; six grandchildren, Kallie, Alena, Dallas, Avonlea, Alexandria and Andrew; siblings, Mike, George, Helen, James, Connie and Sue; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. His fellow believers in the Bellevue congregation were like family to John, and he will be greatly missed by them as they look forward to seeing him again in the resurrection.
In addition to his parents and foster parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Angelina and Rebecca.
Friends may call from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses at 5014 Hayes Ave., Sandusky, where a memorial service will begin at 2 p.m.
Walker-Eastman-Heydinger Funeral Home at 98 W. Main St., Norwalk, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at https://www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions can be given to the Bellevue Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, 5014 Hayes Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870, or to https://donate.jw.org.
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