John P. Vitka

John P. Vitka, age 84, of Powell, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026. Born on December 29, 1941, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, John lived a full and remarkable life filled with adventure, intellect, humor, and devotion to those he loved.

John grew up in Bridgeport, the youngest of four, and graduated from Fairfield College Preparatory High School, as a member of the class of 1959. He went on to study at Fairfield University before completing his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics at the University of Bridgeport in 1964. His curiosity and drive for learning later led him to earn an MBA from Xavier University in 1973.

In 1966, John married the love of his life, Lucille Rich, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly six decades. Together they built a life grounded in mutual respect, teamwork, and adventure. When John joined the U.S. Air Force, the couple embraced the opportunity to live abroad even during an active war. Stationed at the Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, John served as a Captain while Lucille taught at the International School Bangkok. They made lifelong memories, exploring new cultures while strengthening their bond as partners in every sense.

After returning to the United States, John concluded his Air Force career at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado, and began a civilian career as a computer programmer. He entered the field at a time when the industry was just taking shape and quickly found himself at the forefront of a technological revolution. Over the years, career opportunities took him and his family across the country: from Columbus, Ohio, back to his home state of Connecticut, then to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Columbia, Missouri. Eventually, they settled in Powell, Ohio, where John truly set down roots, finding a lasting community, good friends, and the golf courses he dreamed of.

John's presence was larger than life. He was the first to step onto the dance floor, the last to leave a lively discussion on politics, and always the first to support his wife and daughter. He was deeply proud of Lucille's accomplishments, supporting her career and education at a time when that partnership was ahead of its era. Together they shared equally in the joys and responsibilities of home life. John was an exceptional cook, and he delighted in preparing meals that brought family and friends together. Those who knew him can still imagine him in the kitchen, stirring up something special while offering a spirited opinion or two.

John was also a joyful co-conspirator with his daughter Jeanne – always ready to sneak away together finding delicious new restaurants, corner bars and dives to dissect current events in, and the occasional bit of harmless mischief. And while he delighted in their misadventures, he was deeply proud of Jeanne's career as an attorney, her civic involvement, and her devotion to her children and husband.

Faith and fellowship were cornerstones of John's years in Powell. He was a founding parishioner of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and was active in the Men's Club. Golf became another passion, one that blended his love of community, camaraderie, and a touch of friendly competition.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Lucille, his daughter and trusted sidekick, Jeanne V. Gordon, his dearly loved son-in-law Steve, who he embraced as a true son, and his beloved grandchildren, Jenna, Christopher, and Matthew. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Eileen Marks and Barbara Prowell, his brother-in-law and favorite golf partner, Jon Marks, and several nephews and nieces at whose weddings he danced the night away. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Margaret Bundock, Joan Gawitt, and Joseph A. Vitka, Jr.

A Funeral Mass will be held on March 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Church in Powell. Burial of cremains will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, with a reception to celebrate John's life at Kinsale Golf Club at 1:30 p.m.

John's life was one of generosity, support, equity, service, laughter, and love. Those who knew him will remember a larger-than-life man who lived fully, loved deeply, served faithfully, and left an indelible mark on every community he touched. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the everlasting light he so freely shared in life.