John Dudley Risch

POWELL - John Dudley Risch, age 84 of Powell, OH passed away Tuesday, June 28, 2022. Born to the late John and Josephine Risch on September 18, 1937 in Sedalia, Ohio. John’s early years were full of adventures with his three brothers and family in Athens, Ohio. The Risch brother’s legendary stories of their childhood have stood the test of time and are still shared at family gatherings.

After graduating from Athens High School, John attended Ohio University, then served his country in the United States Army for two years and the United States Army Reserves for four. His strong work ethic led to a successful career at Columbia Gas. John spent most of his life as a loving husband and as a father raising his family in Gahanna, Ohio. His proudest accomplishment was providing a loving life for his wife Eva and their two children, Carolyn and Johnny. He was Past President of the Gahanna Shrine Club. John was also past President of the Gahanna Kiwanis with one of his volunteer opportunities had him flipping brats at the annual Gahanna Flea Market. He was a member of several United Methodist Churches, including Stonybrook United Methodist Church in Gahanna, Ohio and later Powell United Methodist Church in Powell, Ohio.

John retired from Columbia Gas after 27 years of service at the age of 57. He enjoyed his retirement years rehabbing and building houses in the Columbus area. He loved to barter- especially cars and coins. He spent his free time golfing and tinkering with cars. He loved to goof around with his grandchildren, and they remember Papa John telling silly stories and taking them on boat rides.

John is survived by his loving wife, Eva of 58 years; his children Carolyn (John) Folk, John A. (Lisa) Risch; his five grandchildren Ashley Chucales, Nick Happ, Lauren Folk, Morgan Folk and Erin Folk; great grandson Luke Huntsman; brothers Richard (Trish) Risch, George (Pat) Risch and Sister-inlaw Jo Risch and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Risch.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at Powell United Methodist Church, 825 E Olentangy St., Powell, Ohio with Pastor Justin Williams officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Springfield Masonic Community, 2655 W. National Rd, Springfield, Ohio 45502 or Powell United Methodist Church, 825 E. Olentangy St, Powell, Ohio 43065.

Condolences may be left at: www.rutherfordfuneralhome.com