John Patrick Stuehr

John Patrick Stuehr passed away Monday, March 2nd at the age of 80. He was preceded in death by his father Lawrence, his mother Eva (nee Diglis), his step-mother Helen (nee Umsted) and his younger brother James. He is survived by his wife Chris (nee Gottlieb) and numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Born in Parma, Ohio, John graduated from Parma High School and Kent State University with a Masters Degree in Theater.

John was an actor, playwright, photographer, poet and commentator. He acted and directed at theaters in Cleveland and New York where one of his plays was produced off-Broadway. He also taught acting and communication skills. He was later the founding Board Chair of the Talespinner Children's Theatre.

He also worked many years as a bookseller and store manager for Scribner's, Borders, Hacker Art Books and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He eventually became a grant writer for the Gordon Square Arts District in Cleveland.

John described himself as a "snap-shooting, grant-writing, doggerel-breeding, word-smithing tale-spinner." He was also an enthusiastic book collector and a faithful Cleveland sports fan. A committed news junkie, he also loved art, music and good movies.

Through his writing and photographs he could make you see the world in new and unexpected ways. He found ways to bring his love of anything interesting and beautiful into his work, his hobbies and his personal life.

John could easily spot fools, fakers and con artists, yet always respected people with intelligence, compassion and commitment. Most importantly, he knew how to cherish and appreciate all the friends and family that shared his life.

John was a true gentleman and a kind, unique spirit. He was a beloved friend and he will be missed.

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