John C. May 1927-2025

John was born Sept. 3, 1927, in Youngstown, a son of the late John and Catherine Stefen May. A proud graduate of East High School, Class of 1945, he left shortly after graduation to serve his country in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Vogelgesang DD862.

John was a pioneer and visionary in the recreational vehicle industry. He began his career working in the family business, May Trailer Co., and in 1958, relocated to Missouri to manage Sharp Mobile Home Sales. Two years later, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Spacecraft Trailer Co. in Independence, Missouri. John designed and manufactured a wide range of innovative RV products — from pickup truck caps and cab-over campers to travel trailers and the world’s first aluminum frame motor homes.

By 1964, his business had expanded to multiple locations across Missouri, Pennsylvania and Kansas. In 1970, he introduced the first cab-over fifth wheel travel trailer, specifically designed with retirees in mind. Ever the innovator, John later patented the electronic push-button slide-out room, a feature that revolutionized RV living and became standard in commercial and retirement RVs worldwide.

In 1976, he built a new RV plant and home in Concordia, Missouri, followed by the development of an RV campground complete with a beauty shop and craft shop, always thinking about the needs of the community he served.

In 1994, John and his beloved wife Alice retired to Gulf Harbors in New Port Richey, Florida, where they enjoyed 14 years of sunshine and seaside living before returning to their hometown of Youngstown.

John is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Alice Breznai May; his children, John (Carolyn) May Jr. and Linda Singh; his grandchildren, Stephanie (Eric) Cramer, Steven (Stephanie) May and Shaun May; and seven great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Dorothy Bartfai; nieces Kathy Wetzl and Sandy (Doug) Wachter; nephew Tom (Joan) Wetzl; and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Tom Wetzl; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Andy and Nancy Breznai; his grandson, Devin Frerking; and his first wife, Ann Vacca.

John’s legacy lives on in the innovations he brought to the RV industry and the family he cherished above all else. He will be remembered for his hard work, creative mind, devotion to family and deep love of country.

Private family services were held at Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.

Entombment took place in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

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