John L Hursey, Jr.

John L. Hursey, Jr., age 60, of Tuscarawas went home with Jesus following a brief battle with cancer.

John is the son of John and MaryAnn (Nigro) Hursey,Sr. of Newcomerstown and was born in Coshocton on January 13, 1956.

A 1974 graduate of Indian Valley South High School, John owned and operated Hursey’s grocery store, Hursey’s Catering and the Canal House in Tuscarawas. He was a beloved community leader, business man and friend who gave of his time and talents to any and all. Of his many passions in life, cooking was close to his heart; he loved sharing his food with others, having catered countless events and supplying the Braves Press Box with food during home football games for many years.

John was an avid golfer and sports enthusiast. He was particularly fond of WVU Basketball, the Cleveland Browns and enjoyed attending professional baseball games at Cleveland and Pittsburgh. John loved music; was known for his amazing drumming skills and was a huge fan of the Blues. He was a member of Columbus Blues Association and loved attending Blues festivals.

Those who knew him best knew not only of his generosity but of his free spirited nature. John loved life and living it to the fullest. His spontaneity created lasting memories with his family and friends as they enjoyed many camping adventures and baseball games through the years.

In addition to his parents, John leaves behind his children, Lindsay, (Lee) Trushell of Newcomerstown, John A. Hursey of Tuscarawas, Alex (Sabrina) Hursey of Newcomerstown, and Logan Hursey, the highlight of John’s life.

Completing the family are his grandchildren, Aden and Brody Trushell and Allie Hursey; his companion, Roxanna Rish of North Canton; his siblings, Ruth Hursey of Columbus, Dave (Debbie) Hursey of Port Washington, Tom (Laura) Hursey of Newcomerstown, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Join the family on Thursday, March 3, 2016, from 4-7 PM as they celebrate John’s life in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover. At 7 PM Pastor Tom Klaserner will conclude the evening by sharing John’s final wishes.

In memory of his giving, and continuing to pay it forward, the family has designated a memorial scholarship in his name through the Indian Valley Foundation. Instead of floral tributes, please direct contributions to the John Hursey, Jr . Memorial Scholarship, C/O Indian Valley Foundation, PO Box 171 Gnadenhutten, Ohio 44629.