Ashtabula, Ohio - On July 29,1956, John T. Hale, a 3 lb. child entered the world, and it was never the same. And then, on July 25, 2025, surrounded by the Pertzs, his best friends and the family of his heart, John left behind his worn-out body to fly back to God.

John (aka Lurch, Slovak, Little Tiger, and Little Johnny) was short in stature and small in physical size, but a giant in heart. He had a gravitational pull that would draw in all those lucky enough to be around him. Anyone who encountered this "little man" (as he called himself) was better for it. He embodied a life well-lived: of a deep soul truly content and grateful, and at peace with anything Life threw at him.

Born in Cleveland to the late Bob and Joan Hale, John graduated from Brush in 1975, being their football mascot. He went right to work at Richmond Mall, where he met his best friend, "older brother," and the Santa to his Elf—Paul Pertz. John eventually moved out to "the Farm" and became the 6th member of the family, helping raise 3 children, dogs, cats, frogs, a turtle, horses, pigs, cattle, chickens, and a wily goat.

Declining health led John to seek a new home in 2018 at Jefferson Healthcare, where he dressed as an elf at Christmas for his fellow residents, cheering them through windows during the pandemic. In 2021, John moved into his own apartment at Country Club Rehabilitation Center, which he affectionately called "The Club." In both homes, John was the light to the darkness, a friend to the lonely, joy to the despairing. No one was left out of his infectious good cheer.

Always employed, John did stints at Sears, McDonalds, J&A Cleaning, Jefferson Piling, and Giant Eagle, ending as a Walmart greeter. John was recognized everywhere and nicknamed "the Mayor of Ashtabula." The Monroe Amish community fondly referred to him as their "Amish Express." John's spirit and charisma were larger than life. He never complained or pitied himself or let his illnesses define him. For John, the glass was always full.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his "second mother" Irene, dear friend Andy, and many beloved dogs and cats. He leaves to cherish his memory everyone who ever had the good fortune to catch his twinkling eye.

On Friday, August 8, 2025, we invite you to join us at John's Mass of The Resurrection at St Joseph Calasanctius Church, E. Jefferson St., Jefferson. Visitation will be at 9 a.m., Mass at 10 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life In the parish hall. Interment will be in Maple Grove Cemetery.

To say that John was not a materialistic man is an understatement. But if you want to pay forward his kindness to God's creatures, feel free to donate to the Ashtabula Animal Protective League or adopt someone. Let's keep his spirit alive: Laugh and be grateful, no matter what obstacles or pain life throws your way. Know that God never leaves you alone.

Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory is handling arrangements. Online obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com