John S. Venglarcik III 1951-2024

Born Dec. 22, 1951, proud of his Slovak heritage, John led a remarkable life filled with dedication to his family, profession and community.

John’s journey in medicine began after graduating from Struthers High School in 1970. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Kent State and Youngstown State universities before earning his medical degree from Ohio State University in 1977. His commitment to healthcare led him to complete his residency at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis.

Throughout his career, John made significant contributions as a pediatric infectious disease doctor. He started at Tod Children’s Hospital before establishing his private practice, where he touched the lives of many patients and their families. John was a master teacher at NEOMED. He served as the director of the TB clinic and Mahoning County Board of Health, showcasing his leadership and expertise in the field.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. As a board member of Brown Horse Projects, he embarked on medical mission trips to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, providing essential care to those in need. John’s passion for helping others extended to his roles at the Neil Kennedy Rehabilitation Center and pioneering the use of internet technology for direct patient communications.

Outside of work, John found joy in running and walking around his neighborhood. His love for fitness led him to participate in renowned marathons such as the Pittsburgh and Boston marathons. Additionally, he was a devoted Cleveland Browns fan and held season tickets to support his favorite team.

John’s legacy is cherished by his surviving family members, including his beloved wife, Margaret A. Walas Venglarcik, whom he married Sept. 10, 1977; his two daughters, Jessica Venglarcik of Alexandria, Virginia and Dr. Carey (Kevin O’Leary) Venglarcik of Redding, California; four grandchildren, Peter and Alice Drake, and Nora and Emma O’Leary; three sisters, Barbara McBride of Poland, Kathy (Mark) Brammer of Canfield and Tina (Joseph) Bokros of Poland; brother-in-law, Edward King of Struthers; and many nieces and nephews.

In this time of loss, John is reunited with his parents, John S. Jr. and Alice Franko Venglarcik; his sister, Carol King; and his brother-in-law, Robert McBride.

Family and friends may pay their respects 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel.

Prayers will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday, May 3, 2024, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m., at Holy Family Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to the Brown Horse Projects, brownhorse

projects.com, or by mail, Brown Horse Projects, P.O. Box 283, Canfield, OH 44406.

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