John E. Painter Jr., 82

U.S. Air Force Veteran

Late of Lockport, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 12, 2024.  Born July 15, 1942, in Cumberland, Maryland.  He maintained a lifelong connection to his birthplace and his sister in spirit, Brigetta Hausman.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruth (nee Bowden) Painter.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Sandra M. Painter and his children and grandchildren: Chris (Erica) Painter and daughters Reese and Reagan; Carrie Bowling and sons Dylan (Savannah) and Keegan; Jaime (Ken) Koziol and sons Sam and Alex; Jerry Variola and son Rocco. John will also be missed by his siblings-in-law, Sharon (Bill) Cassidy and Jerry (Kelly) Vassalla and many nieces and nephews.

John was driven by his patriotism and a personal sense of honor; he served as a police officer, insurance fraud investigator, and later worked in private security. An Air Force veteran, John took pride in his service and was honored to be recognized by a recent honor flight. He connected with other service members through the Lago Vista Veteran's Club. John loved cars - working on cars, watching programs about cars, and riding in his beloved Corvette. However, his greatest loves may have been the adored black and white dogs that served as his steadfast companions, Mitzi, Mandy, Bella, and Zoey.

Memorial Visitation and Funeral on Monday, October 28, 2024 from 9:00am to 10:30am at O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME 1105 E. 9th St., Lockport.  Inurnment following at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.  For Info: (815) 838-5010 or www.oneilfuneralhome.com