John T. Lehigh, 60, of Newark, formerly of Tuscarawas County, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 following a brief but determined battle with cancer.
Born in Columbus on October 12, 1964, he was the son of Mary E. Lehigh-Sears and the late Daniel T. Lehigh and was a 1983 graduate of Tuscarawas Central Catholic High School.
John enjoyed many varied experiences in his lifetime. He was a self-made chef who loved his time working at Engine House #5 and Damon’s International, and continued to share photos of his personal dishes through social media. He worked for many years in debt collection and fraud investigations, but recently completed his Commercial Drivers License in hopes of taking himself out of the office and on the road. John proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a talented tap dancer and drummer, loved music, and accumulated a collection of vinyl’s and turntables. He especially enjoyed playing golf with his stepfather Dennis, and on occasion, John would join a group of his friends, who together would serve breakfast to area health care facility residents and their families.
In addition to his mother, Mary, he is survived by his stepfather Dennis Sears; sisters Elizabeth (Steven) Thomakos of New Philadelphia, and Susan (Shinichi) Moriyama of Portland, Oregon; stepsister Tanya Sears of Concord, North Carolina; nephews Dillon (Lillian) Thomakos and Spencer (Amber) Thomakos of Columbus, Cameron Thomakos of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, and Sage Moriyama of Portland, Oregon; a niece Olivia Thomakos of South Kingston, Rhode Island; a great niece Luna; and great-nephews Oliver and Declan.
John is preceded in death by his father Daniel T. Lehigh; and brother Brian Lehigh.
In honoring John’s wishes, cremation will take place and a Celebration of Life service will be held at the Broadway Global Methodist Church at 120 Church Ave., SE in New Philadelphia 44663 on Monday, April 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Harley Wheeler officiating. A committal service will follow at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio with Military Honors being conducted by the 555 Military Honor Guard.
Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek is assisting the family with arrangements.
Smith-Varns Funeral Home
330-852-2141
www.smithfuneralhomesugarcreek.com
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