John Paul Panagopoulos

John Paul “JP” Panagopoulos

Age 49 of Wadsworth, tragically passed away on October 30, 2025. John was born on April 6, 1976 to Paul and Darlene (Meyers) Panagopoulos in Canton, OH, where he grew up and spent his happy, “very Greek” childhood years.

JP graduated from Glen Oak High School, before taking his talents – and his fun-loving spirit – to The Ohio State University, where he built friendships that lasted a lifetime and an enduring passion for his beloved Buckeyes.

Without a doubt, JP’s most treasured role was that of adoring husband to his squirrel, Shannon (Patrick), and dad to his pride and joy, their son, Landon John. JP loved his family fiercely, serving as their protector and provider, and overall ambassador of happiness. He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his big personality was positively magnetic, drawing in strangers before they soon became friends. He loved nothing more than sharing a great meal, especially if it was homecooked, or an expensive glass of wine, but he was happiest at home, surrounded by the ones he loved most.

Affectionately celebrated as the “Bologna King of the Midwest,” JP carved out a legacy as a purveyor and distributor of Boar’s Head meats, proudly serving delis across Ohio as the owner of Northern Ohio Provisions. He poured his life and soul into building his business and creating opportunities for others. His work ethic was only matched by his big heart. Forget about “bringing home the bacon” – JP brought home – and to every party – the bacon, ham, turkey, cheese, and the best-looking charcuterie spread north of the horseshoe.

JP’s generosity was legendary. He had a laugh that filled any room, and would do – and did – anything for a person or worthy cause in need. Not only did he have many (many) friends, but he was also everyone’s best friend, possessing the unique quality of making everyone feel like the most special compatriot in his vast tribe. JP loved with a passion and a personality that were bigger than life itself.

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it to anyone else” – Charles Dickens; JP lightened the burden of everyone around him in big and small ways, and made life far richer, and far more joyful. The world is a little dimmer without his light, but his big energy, laughter, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those lucky enough to have known him.

JP is survived by his loving wife, Shannon (Patrick), beloved son, Landon, and their fur babies, Duke (JP’s Golden Retriever best friend) and Pippa (Duke’s boss); his brother & nephews, Mark, Andrew, and Gavin (Canton); his mother and father-in-law, Jackie & Sam Patrick (Springboro), brother and sister-in-law, Billy & Kim Bost (Springboro) and innumerable friends, extended family, and those friends who became chosen family. JP is preceded in death by his loving parents, Paul & Darlene Panagopoulos, who JP adored and respected until his last day.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 4th at St. Hilary Catholic Church, 2750 W. Market Street Fairlawn, OH 44333. Calling hours will be from 4:00-7:00pm, with a Catholic mass immediately following at 7:30pm. A Celebration of Life will be hosted for close family and friends at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in JP’s loving memory to Fully Equipped, which provides personal hygiene products, sports equipment, and clothes a student-athlete wouldn’t otherwise have – https://fullyequipped.co/donate/