John Reid Painter

John Reid Painter of Niles passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020 at 8:50 p.m. in his residence with his loving family by his side. He was 92.

John was born on July 19, 1928 in Butler, PA, the son of the late Dwight R. and Mildred McCall Painter.

He attended Kane High School. Following high school, John proudly served our country in the United States Navy as a Fireman 1st class following World War II.

Mr. Painter retired in 1987 from Packard Electric where he was an engineer for 38 ½ years. Following his retirement, he was a volunteer tour guide at the Ashtabula Maritime and Surface Transportation Museum.

John was a 60-year member of the Niles First Presbyterian Church and recently became a member of the Mineral Ridge First Presbyterian Church. Earlier in life he enjoyed yearly family vacations at Rice Lake, Canada with a fishing pole in his hand. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and loved history, especially studying the Civil War. John had a knack for knowledge on obscure facts. The minute you had the pleasure of making John’s acquaintance you became his friend. Most importantly he cherished spending time and making memories with his family.

John was survived by his wife, the love of his life, Dora Jean Johnson Painter whom he married June 9, 1951; 2 daughters Karen K. Painter and Nancy and her husband Frank Leskovec whom he not only considered a son in law but his best buddy, both of Niles; a sister, Carole Walker of San Jose, CA; 2 grandchildren, Jeffrey (Jessica) Painter and Mackenzie Leskovec; a great granddaughter, Keeley Brister; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a daughter, Deborah Jean Painter and a brother, James B. Painter.

Friends and family may view the obituary and send condolences by visiting www.NicholasFuneralHome.com

Memorial Contributions can be made to the Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County www.awlrescueme.com, Mineral Ridge First Presbyterian Church www.fpcmr.org, a Hospice of your choice.

At John’s request a private service will be held to honor and celebrate his life.

Internment will be at Mt. Tabor Cemetery in Kane, PA.

Arrangements are entrusted to the WM Nicholas Funeral Home & Cremation Services 614 Warren Ave. Niles, OH 44446.