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BORN
1947
DIED
2020
John Wells Obituary
NELSONVILLE — John S. Wells passed away peacefully Jan. 7, 2020 at OSU Hospital surrounded by his loving family. John (Shan) was born May 20, 1947, in Gallipolis, Ohio, to Juliana Johnson Wells and John Melvin Wells. He was a 1965 graduate of Eastern High School and served briefly in the U.S. Air Force.
After completing the Division of Wildlife's officer academy in 1972, John was assigned to Athens County as a Wildlife Officer. Upon his early retirement in 1997, he was a Wildlife Investigator working in District 4.
Following his retirement, he worked as a projectionist at Movies 10.
John was a founding member of the York Township Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as the second chief in the department's history. During his service as firefighter and chief, he was instrumental in acquisition of two new fire trucks, updated equipment, training, rescue equipment, fund raising, and numerous other programs. He served as Treasurer of the Athens County Firefighters Association and member of the Athens County Emergency Debriefing Team. He participated in the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste District Planning Committee.
John was active in many local and state sportsmen organizations, a former member of Aladdin Shrine, Westgate and Nelsonville F.&A.M., Eudora Chapter #72 O.E.S., Nelsonville B.P.O.E., Nelsonville Lions Club, and Nelsonville Presbyterian Church. He was an accomplished woodworker, mechanic, welder, gardener, and jack of all trades.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Shelly (Wells) Proffitt; and first wife, Charlene (Pigott) Hamilton. He is survived by his children, John Wayne (Anita) Wells and Malinda Kay (John) Johnston; grandson, John Eric Johnston; brother, Gary M. (Danielle) Wells; former wife of 34 years, Carol (Hewitt) Wells; many special friends and cousins; current wife, Shirley.
At John's request, cremation has taken place and there will be no service. Please feel free to make memorial contributions in remembrance of him to the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Wells
5 Entries
Donald and Lois Dunn
February 4, 2020
Sorry for your loss.
Dexter Conrad
January 27, 2020
Shirley and family, This is a complete shock to read this. I am so sorry.
Tim Plageman
January 27, 2020
We were sorry to hear of John's passing. He was my training officer when I started with the Division in 1976. He taught me how to be a good officer and treat people like my neighbor. He helped me through some tough times while I got my career going. I think of him today as my mentor and friend.
Tami (Robinette) Werry
January 27, 2020
I grew up knowing John as a kind and gentle man. He was friends with my dad, Bob Robinette. John and Carol were always so nice to me. One fond memory was them taking me to the Majestic movie theater. It was the first time I had ever been there. John always treated me like I was someone special. He even had a nickname for me. I'm sad to hear of his passing.
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Marlene and Gary Bartlett
January 26, 2020
So sorry. We always liked talking with your Dad, John. Very nice guy. My Dad Roger, will miss seeing and talking with him. Those two always helped each other if they could in any way, especially in their younger days. Prayers for comfort during this difficult time.
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