COLUMBUS
John W. McGovern, 81, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2024. He was born on January
26, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio, to William and Suzanne McGovern, who preceded him in death.
John was known for his kindness, determination, and zest for life.He grew up in Portsmouth, Ohio, where he met his wife, Gertrude Reinhardt. The two were married on June 8, 1968. John graduated from Notre Dame High School in Portsmouth and earned both a degree in business administration and an MBA from Ohio University before starting his career at Atlas Crankshaft, a subsidiary of Cummins, in Fostoria, Ohio. He was actively involved in Fostoria, serving as president of the United Way and earning multiple awards for serving others.
In 1978, John and his family moved to Columbus, Indiana, where he joined Cummins working in the purchasing department. After 35 years, he retired in 2003 as a director. John continued his charitable efforts in Columbus, serving on the boards of San Souci, Senior Products, and the Columbus Fellowship Club. He also held numerous roles at St. Bartholomew Church and school, including being a lector and a member of the choir.
John had a passion for learning and reading as he devoured novels and newspapers alike. He loved staying active, whether exercising or cheering on his favorite teams. John was a devout Catholic. Faith was central to his life where he kept his prayer book close and saved funeral prayer cards as a way to honor others. John approached everything with prayer and gratitude, thankful to God for the many blessings he received.
Above all, John’s greatest joy was his family. He loved all of his “women.” He was a loving husband and father and was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. His happiest moments were spent attending their activities and watching them thrive. John was a kind soul, known for his infectious smile and good-natured personality. His positivity
in the face of adversity was admired by many, as he worked tirelessly to overcome life’s challenges while gracefully accepting the things he could not change. John’s determination and hard work inspired others. He mentored many people in all facets of his life and career.
John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gertrude McGovern; and his daughters, Melissa (Eric)
Neal, Elizabeth (Chad) Swearingen, Rebecca (Brett) Merritt, and Sarah (Brian) Turner. He also
leaves behind grandchildren, Morgan Neal, Madelyn Neal, Joseph Neal, Alexis Wells (Gage),
Anna Terrell (Austin), Olivia Swearingen, John Merritt, Rachel Merritt, Grace Merritt and Charlie
Turner; along with two great-grandchildren and his sister, Suzanne (Steve) Monroe.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William McGovern; and his sister, Christine
Gardner.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Friday, October 18, 2024, at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, officiated by Father Chris Wadelton. The Funeral Mass will live stream at saintbartholomew.org. Visitations will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 17, and from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Friday, October 18, at Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street. The Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Columbus Fellowship Club, Saint Bartholomew School, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences and special memories may be shared with the McGovern family and a video tribute may be seen at barkesweaverglick.com.
