John R. McGreer

John R. McGreer, 82, passed away peacefully at home, Friday, August 11, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 8, 1941, in Cleveland and lived in Brunswick for years. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his children, Sean (Karen), Moira, Michael (Elsa), Kerry (Ron), Katie and Megan; his grandchildren, Ryan (Sydnie), Laura, Allison, Amanda (Timothy), Isabel (Alex), Ethan, Evan, Owen, Madeline, Russell and Kara Belle; great-grandchildren, Amelia and Isla; sister, Kathy; brother, Gary; many nieces and nephews. John graduated as an engineer from Case Institute of Technology and had a long career in the steel industry, working at J&L and LTV Steel. He finished his career, working with his best friend, Dell Kitzel, at E.C. Kitzel & Sons. John wed Barbara in 1966, in love with his beautiful bride and knowing he married out of his league. They were together for 57 years, giving their six children a loving home filled with boisterous fun. He was a lifelong outdoorsman, enjoying camping, shooting, hunting and fishing with his family. John took his large family on several long trips, crisscrossing the country, sharing his love of the outdoors and his country's history. Highlights weren't just Old Faithful at Yellowstone National Park. He also shared the South Dakota glories of the Corn Palace and Wall Drug (and yes, we had ice water, if you know, you know). He was never without a good book to read; the best customer Brunswick Library ever had. His children learned more from his stories and retelling of the book he just read, listening to him at the kitchen table, than in all the history classes in school. As his children had children, he enjoyed spending time with them. Grandpa could always be counted on for 'surprise' Saturday breakfast at various local restaurants with his grandkids. Sundays were for family Mass at St. Ambrose Parish. He will be missed greatly by all. The family will receive friends and relatives from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, August 16, 2023, in Carlson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1642 Pearl Road (1/2 mile south of Route 303), Brunswick. The funeral will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 17, 2023, in St. Ambrose Church, 929 Pearl Rd., Brunswick. He will be laid to rest in the Resurrection Cemetery, in Valley City. In lieu of flowers, contributions will be graciously accepted in John's name to St. Ambrose Church, Saint Joseph Academy or The Gary Sinise Foundation.