John Levi Bond passed away peacefully on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of his family.

John was born on September 16, 1936, in Belmont, Ohio, to Josephine White Bond and Dewey Lowell Bond. From an early age, he was curious and active, spending as much time as he could in the woods hunting and fishing. He enjoyed building and racing Soap Box Derby cars, playing softball and basketball, and the companionship of Champ, the family's loyal retriever. John graduated from Belmont High School in 1954.

He attended The Ohio State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1960. His years at Ohio State fostered both a love of engineering and a lifelong devotion to the Buckeyes. He often shared stories of attending Ohio State–Michigan football games during the Woody Hayes era and remained an enthusiastic fan throughout his life. He also played a great deal of golf during his college years, when fellow Buckeye Jack Nicklaus was attending Ohio State. Golf remained one of his lifelong interests, becoming a member of Highlands Golf Club in Pataskala, Ohio, where he was runner-up in the club championship.

John built a successful engineering career, working his way up to Chief Plant Engineer at A.E. Staley before continuing as a Project Engineer with Metals Trades, Inc. He was known for his ability to solve problems, his strong work ethic, and his determination to see projects through.

Outside of work, John loved building and creating. Woodworking, which began as an interest in grade school, became a lifelong passion. Friends and family were blessed with beautiful furniture and handcrafted pieces that reflected both his talent and patience.

John also had a keen eye for opportunity and a love of the land. Over more than twenty years, he purchased, improved, and sold properties throughout southern Ohio, eventually owning more than 3,000 acres. His children often worked alongside him restoring homes and learning practical skills that would stay with them throughout their lives.

In 1996, John designed and built the wooded Amanda, Ohio, home where he would spend some of the happiest years of his life. With the help of lifelong friend Don Riemenschneider and neighbor Jim "Coonie" Coon, he created a home that reflected everything he loved: craftsmanship, nature, family, and friendship. Situated on 200 wooded acres with ponds he stocked himself, the property became a cherished gathering place for family and friends. He formed lasting friendships with countless neighbors including Pam and Mark Martens, Joe and Dorcas Kurtz, Matt Roush, and Dr. Bill and Penny Gesel, whose friendship and support meant so much to him and his family.

Retirement allowed John to continue learning and creating. He continued woodworking and took classes with his dear friend Lynn Vogel, learning the art of Windsor-style chair making. He also became an accomplished cook, known for his Spanish paella, fruit pies, ribs, green beans, and many other favorite dishes. He loved opening his home to others and gathering family and friends around his table.

Standing 6-foot-4, John was known for his warm hugs, welcoming spirit, and easygoing nature. He loved teaching children and grandchildren about woodworking, nature, and the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands. He rarely got caught up in life's small frustrations and was happiest when surrounded by people he loved, sharing stories, solving problems, working on a project, or enjoying a good meal together.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine White Bond and Dewey Lowell Bond; his sisters, Esther Neuhart, Evelyn Beck, and Jean Sponsellor; and his brothers-in-law, Bill Sponsellor and Charles Rice.

He is survived by his sister, Janet Rice; his children, Doug Bond (Betsy), Cherie Bond, and Holly Meyer (Steve); his grandchildren, John Wardrop, Allie Bond, Cameron Bond, and Jack Meyer; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Morristown Methodist Church, 209 Church St., Morristown, OH 43759.

Funeral services for John Bond will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Morristown Methodist Church in Morristown, Ohio.

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