John Lee Gaertner, 83, of Findlay, passed away peacefully in his wife’s arms on March 9, 2026, at Blanchard Valley Hospital.

He was born January 22, 1943, the beloved son of the late Frank and Gladys (Wickman) Gaertner.

John is survived by his loving wife, Dawn Gaertner; daughters, Betsy (Todd) Hughes of Cape Coral, FL, and Barbara (Phil) Hamner of Cape Coral, FL; and stepdaughter, April Darrington of Findlay. He was blessed with ten grandchildren, Adam (Kate) Armstrong, Aaron (Morganne) Armstrong, Courtney (Ethan) DeForest, Bryce Hughes, Derek Griffin, Brett Griffin, Taylor Doyle, Brenden Pizzuti, Trevor Hanes, Trinity Gorman, and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Kimberly Gaertner-Pizzuti, and former spouse, Cheryl (Ede) Cubberley.

John was an Allstate Insurance Agent in Findlay for over 50 years and enjoyed and appreciated generation after generation of customers. He truly loved his job and especially the interaction with his Allstate family.

John was a great tennis player and won many awards and trophies at the Northridge Tennis and Swim Club. He always said, “I try to play every shot like it’s my last!” Beyond tennis, John had a deep love for Elvis Presley that became a defining part of his life. For many years, he delighted others with his Elvis tribute performances, complete with a white jumpsuit, red scarf, signature shoes, styled hair, and his TCB medallion. He knew how to bring joy to those around him, especially through the music he loved so dearly. His favorite songs included Can't Help Falling in Love, Burning Love, and Lawdy Miss Clawdy—timeless classics that will forever echo the spirit he carried.

John was also a lifelong Detroit Lions fan and loved attending games at the Silverdome, and later at Ford Field, every Thanksgiving. He especially admired players like Barry Sanders and Matthew Stafford. Mostly, John loved to spend time with his Shetland Sheepdog, Benny.

A celebration of John’s life will take place at a later date. HUFFORD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1500 Manor Hill Rd., Findlay, (419-422-1500), is honored to serve John’s family.

Memorials may be given to the Humane Society & SPCA of Hancock County, 4550 Fostoria Ave., Findlay, 45840 in John Gaertner or Benny Gaertner’s names.