John Robert Thome Sr.

John R. Thome, Sr., Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Refusing to tolerate one more Cleveland winter, John R. Thome, Sr. departed this world on November 3, 2025, for a heaven full of beautifully manicured golf courses, club pours of Tanqueray, and the love of his life by his side again.
A life-long Clevelander, John was born to Eleanor and John E. Thome in 1943. He graduated from St. Edward High School, and holds degrees from St. Francis University (PA), and Case Institute of Technology.
In 1965, John married his true love, Diane (nee Mau). They made their home on the west side of Cleveland before moving to Chagrin Falls to raise their family. With an unwavering work ethic, John immersed himself in the emerging technology environment and quickly made a name for himself as an unstoppable sales professional and consummate negotiator. In the 1970's, John became a partner of Chi Corporation, running world-wide sales and growing the company exponentially. When Chi was acquired by DCA, John ran North American sales for the Georgia-based company before returning to Cleveland to start the second iteration of Chi Corporation with his son, John, Jr.
The ultimate DIY man, John could fix anything and took great pride in creating beautiful landscapes and advising his children and grandchildren on how to maintain their homes. But John's greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.
He and Diane made many life-long friends at Chagrin Valley Country Club, where John sat on several boards and served as President. Golf soon became their social passion, and they made their winter home at Pelican Marsh in Naples, FL. It was in Naples that John expressed his amazing talent for tending orchids. His yard and home were filled with every variety and color, creating a spectacular view from every room.
Throughout the years, John and Diane spent numerous hours sitting on every variety of sport bleachers imaginable, cheering on their children and grandchildren, many of whom went on to play collegiate sports.
John is survived by his brother, Paul (Kathy Ann); and his children, John Jr. (Christine), Colleen Kennedy (Brian), Jerry (Jennifer), and Elizabeth Toohig (Brian). Grandpa will be dearly missed by his 13 grandchildren, Jessica Thome (Ryan Toplak), Jack Thome (Ann), Hallie Thome, Hannah Thome, Tyler Kennedy (Kristine), Bryant Kennedy (Jessica), Colin Kennedy, Alison Thome, Paige Thome, Alec Kolenic, Ashton Kolenic, Jessica Toohig, and Grady Toohig; and his five great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends to pay tribute and celebrate John's life on Friday, November 28 at St. John Funeral Home, 16381 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A short service will be held at the same location at 2:00 pm, followed by a reception at Chagrin Valley Country Club.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Cleveland Botanical Garden or a charity of your choice.
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