John R. Empcke

John R. Empcke, 67, of Oak Harbor, OH passed away, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at the University Hospital, Cleveland, OH. He was born on November 29, 1955 in Port Clinton, OH to Glenn F. and Barbara R. (Kramer) Empcke. He graduated from Oak Harbor High School in 1973. On August 27, 1976 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Danbury Township, OH he married Julia Ann Lowien, the love of his life, and she survives. John worked as a self-employed painter and wall paperer for over 50 years, including his early years when he started out helping his uncle, Brick Laubacher, before finally retiring last Fall. He built his business on word of mouth from customer to customer from the fine work that he did and always stood by. John enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his wife. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Oak Harbor. If he was not working, he would most often be found in a tree stand in the woods, in a boat on the water, or at the local McDonald’s for coffee in the mornings, lunch in the afternoons, or at Wild Wings Restaurant for dinner, enjoying time spent with friends. John had a great sense of humor and loved to joke around with people. He was a good provider to his family, a loyal friend, and he will be greatly missed.

In addition to his loving wife of over 46 years, Julia “Judy” Empcke, he is survived by his son, Michael Empcke of Brook Park, OH, daughter, Lisa (Joel) McCoy of Bowling Green, OH, brothers, Glenn “Butch” F. (Marlene) Empcke and Patrick “Pat” (Vera) Empcke both of Oak Harbor, and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister.

Visitation for John will be Friday, March 3, 2023 from 2-8 p.m., with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m., at the Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 165 E. Water St., Oak Harbor, OH. Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023 by Pastor Cheryl Wessel at the funeral home with additional visitation from 9-11 a.m. that morning. Memorial contributions in memory of John may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Oak Harbor. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.