John William “Mesz” Mess, 81

John William “Mesz” Mess passed into God’s care on December 9th, 2025 at the age of 81. John was a man of humor, faith, and endless curiosity. He loved spending time with his wife and family as well as gardening, cooking, reading (especially history & his Bible), playing with new technology and especially enjoying any day he could fish—just like his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He loved pickling his Hungarian wax peppers and making homemade salsa for all to enjoy. His Christmas peppers are still strung over the front window frames to dry by his favorite glider where he spent countless hours with his beloved “cookie girl,” Gina. John lived a very vivid and fulfilling life and will be greatly missed.

John was born in Wadsworth, Ohio and raised in Norton. He graduated from Norton High School in 1962, and University of Akron in 1967. He taught 36 years as a 7th grade social studies teacher in Wooster City Schools.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Mess Sr. & mother, Elizabeth (Hahn) Mess of Norton, Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Regina “Gina” Mess; his children, John J. “Johnny” Mess and Elizabeth (Liz) Urbach; and his sister, Judy Peterman. John had a playful & loving spirit, and will also be missed for his wit and humor. His faith in God carried him home to heaven and left others knowing Jesus, who died for everybody’s sins and is now waiting for them to know Him and be with Him.

Calling hours: Monday, December 15th, 4–6 p.m., Shreve Community Church, Shreve, Ohio

Funeral service: Tuesday, December 16th, 1:00 p.m., Shreve Community Church, Shreve, Ohio

Burial: Following the service, Oak Grove Cemetery, Shreve, Ohio

In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to the Gideons or your choice.

“And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” – Matthew 4:19.

As John would say, “There’s no such day as a bad fishing day & have a blessed day!”