John C. Schinker 1945-2025

Born May 25, 1945, John was the youngest of seven children born to George and Marion Schinker. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, two brothers and daughter, Jolyne.

John was a 1964 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School and a member of the athletic hall of fame. He worked as a pipefitter at RMI in Niles before his retirement in 2000.

He coached football for many years, and never missed a game when his sons and grandson were playing. As an avid Ohio State fan, he enjoyed the band’s skull sessions as much as the football games.

After retiring, John became a master gardener and served as president of the Gardeners of Greater Youngstown and the Gardeners of America. He volunteered at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek Park and worked with their youth veggie garden program for many years. He also volunteered at the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities workshop, teaching gardening skills, and spearheaded the garden club’s annual plant sale to raise money for horticulture scholarships. He judged numerous horticulture competitions throughout Ohio.

John is survived by his wife, Georgia (Zucco), whom he married Sept. 21, 1968; children, John (Debbie), George and Dynele (Ray) Schinker-Kuharich; grandchildren, Emily Schinker, Samm Schinker, Cameron Kuharich and Kyle Kuharich; along with his sister, Linda; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, at Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave.

A celebration of life will be at noon Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, at the funeral home, with an hour of calling beginning at 11 a.m.

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