John R. Wade

John R. Wade, 61, of Norwalk, Ohio, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at MetroHealth Main Campus after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on March 3, 1964, in Willard, Ohio, to the late James and Wilma (Uther) Wade, and was a 1982 Norwalk High School graduate.

Funny and witty, John was the epitome of a “family man” who knew people everywhere he went. He golfed and bowled his whole life and had coached bowling at Norwalk High School for 20 years. John’s bowlers often referred to him as “a legend”. He was a foodie who enjoyed road trips seeking out delicious dishes he had researched or heard about on the Food Network. He also enjoyed gambling and playing the lottery.

John was an avid Michigan fan, which fed a family rivalry as the girls were all Ohio State fans. He worked as a graphic designer for Noble Sports and Trophies and was a member of The Foundation Church in Norwalk. He was also a member of the I.R.N. (International Referral Network) of Norwalk.

Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 41 years, Shari (Klett) Wade; their children, Betsy (Jon) Horine, Jessica (Brett) Montague, Tiffany (fiancé, Shawn Martz) Wade, Jamie (Rob) Bliss; grandchildren, John “Jack”, Violet, Lilliana, Avery, Maverick, Stella, and “baby Bliss” who is on the way; and sisters, Rachelle (William) Heidl, and Theresa Wade.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Floyd Lee Wade, and mother in-law, Marybelle Robinson.

A visitation for John will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11 am- 1 pm, at The Foundation Church, 535 US-20 E., Norwalk, where funeral services will begin after the visitation time, at 1 pm with Pastor Bob Hudberg officiating. Burial will follow in North Fairfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Norwalk High School Athletic Boosters, P.O. Box 67, Norwalk, OH 44857, or Cancer Services, 505 E. Perkins Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870, or Cancer Tees Me Off, 117 Marshall Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870. Online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting: www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com