John M. Wroe

1948 - 2021

John M. Wroe, 73, peacefully passed into the Eternal Light on September 19, 2021 with his loving family surrounding him. Born September 3, 1948 in Akron, he was a proud lifelong resident and servant of the community. He earned his B.S. from the University of Akron and his Master's in Education from Kent State University. He was a very proud and passionate professional educator at Akron Garfield High School along with operating his own printing business. He enthusiastically served his community as a volunteer and ambassador to the Challenge Golf Program for 25 years where he found so much joy, healing, and connections with countless others who were also seeking hope and friendship. Preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Edna Wroe, and brother, James Wroe, Sr. He is survived by his beautiful loving wife of 53 years, Cyndy Wroe. They met at age 13 at Perkins Middle School, her "Johnny Angel" of a lifetime and soul mates forever. He is also survived by his four children, Debbie (Richard) Reed, Bill (Steve) Wroe, Wendy Wroe, and Patty (Chris) Szydlo; his grandchildren, Emily and Alex Reed, Tyler, Zachary, and Alyssa Szydlo; sister, Joyce Starkey of Akron, along with his cherished cat, Daisy. John greatly loved bowling, golf, Swenson's, and his porch and patio time shared with his wife. The frequent Goodyear blimp sightings and Cleveland Indians games always brought extra big smiles to his face. He had the rare ability to make a warm connection with everyone he met and he enjoyed telling stories and reminiscing fond memories. We will be forever grateful to Ron Tristano and the Akron General Challenge Golf program along with the countless others who helped John thrive with his disability after his brain injury 27 years ago. He often spoke of the miracle of therapy and medicine and was deeply grateful for all the healing hands and hearts that uplifted his constant recovery to be better. His tremendous bravery lives on and we could not be more proud of the legacy he has left for us and our family. John was the most devoted husband, loving father, adoring grandfather, and loyal friend. Immediate family is celebrating his life privately, as he wished. His children are planning a John Wroe Memorial Golf Tournament next year to continue his legacy of service to the Challenge Golf Program. A special thank you to the compassionate care provided by the staff at the Cleveland Clinic Akron General. In John's honor, please kindly direct all donations and support to the Akron General Development Foundation Challenge Golf Program at 1 Akron General Ave Akron, OH 44307.