Veteran
John D. Robinson, 57, of Bryan, passed away Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, after a well-fought 3 ½ year battle with cancer.
John was born March 16, 1966, in Bryan, son of Patricia (Farber) Collins and the late Harley Robinson. He graduated from Jackson High School (Michigan) in 1985, then served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1985-1989, stationed in California, Japan, and Egypt.
John returned home to earn Associate of Business and Associate of Information Technology degrees from Northwest State Community College.
John’s career in I.T. began when his computer warranty wouldn’t cover a repair; he took it back home from the store, tore it apart and fixed it himself.
His I.T. career included work at Wyse Book and Office, Sauder Manufacturing, German Mutual Insurance, Credit Adjustments, ProMedica, and Keller Logistics. He was tenacious and specialized in fixing problems no one else could figure out.
John was a black belt in karate. He enjoyed running, acting, photography, giving unexpected gifts, journalism, all animals, and Star Wars.
But most of all he loved to make people laugh. At a young age he dressed in funny clothes to make his mom laugh, and his desire to spread happiness through laughter continued through his life and throughout the trials of his illness.
John is survived by his best friend and companion, Beth Arps, of Bryan, and mother, Patricia Collins, of Montpelier.
According to his wishes (he loved a good party at Tim & Rach’s) there will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Sept. 16 at noon at the home of Rachael and Tim Bowling, 2633 County Road 20, Bryan, Ohio 43506.
Memorials in John’s honor may be gifted to Cancer Assistance of Williams County, Fort Defiance Humane Society, or Williams County Community Theater.