John William Rorabaugh Sr.

John W. L. Rorabaugh, Sr. was a caring husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. With his family by his side, John transitioned peacefully to heaven on, November 19, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born April 10, 1944, in Columbus, Ohio.

The simple pleasures in life brought joy to John. He loved any time spent with family and watching the Buckeyes, learning about WWII History, and watching or reading Westerns. He was very generous and would help almost anyone in need. Anyone that knew John, knew his faith in God and when asked how he was doing, John would respond with his signature in phrase “If I was any better, I’d be in heaven.”

Although John worked as a truck driver most of his career, his true calling was his work at Tree of Life Christian School. As Building Supervisor John kept things running smoothly, but his most important and beloved role was mentor to the many students at the school who knew him as “Mr. John.” Mr. John’s student “posse” had many members who continued to connect with him long after they graduated and up until his passing. He was also a proud member of the U.S. Air Force, serving during the Vietnam War. This honor allowed him to take part in an amazing experience through Honor Flight Columbus, in which two of his mentees chaperoned him and dozens of students welcomed him home to honor him and his service to our country.

John is survived by his loving wife, of 61 years, Diana, children John Rorabaugh, Jr., Tim (Karen) Rorabaugh, Diana (Mike) Willis, grandchildren Jessica Rorabaugh, Jake (Liz) Rorabaugh, Alex Rorabaugh, Morgan (Daphne) Goddard, Miranda Goddard, Marissa Rorabaugh, Hilary (Jake) Raab, Zachary Willis and great-grandchildren Lucas, Theo and another great-grandson on the way.

He is preceded in death by his parents Roy and Ina May Rorabaugh.

Friends may gather for calling hours at Newcomer Northeast Chapel, 3047 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH on November 24th, from 2:00-4:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm. The funeral service will take place the following day, November 25th, at 11:00am, with Luke Vest, Avery Kirkpatrick and Noah Komula conducting the service. A short graveside service, with military honors, will follow at Northlawn Memory Gardens in Westerville.

Friends are welcome to honor John’s memory in a way that feels meaningful – whether with flowers, a donation to Tree of Life Christian Schools, or other charity of their choosing.