John Shimko passed away peacefully on April 5th at the VA Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. From Steubenville, Ohio, he graduated from Big Red High School and continued to follow the football team throughout his life. He has many friends and relatives who still reside there. After being discharged from the Navy, he attended Ohio University, where he received both a Bachelor's and Master's in education. He went on to teach students with multiple disabilities for 30 years. He was often featured in the Athens Messenger newspaper for his innovative ways to teach his students. Early in his career, he married his college "sweety" and together they raised two children: Laura of Lexington, Kentucky, and Jonnalyn of Lexington, Kentucky, both teachers.

He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn Motz Shimko of Winchester, Kentucky, two daughters, Laura Turner (Zack) and a grandson Jaxon. He is also survived by his youngest daughter, Jonnalyn Shimko (Bryan). His surviving relatives include a sister, Barbara of Texas, Cindy G. (Billy) of Nevada, and Joe (Mary) of Florida.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Shimko, and his mother and father, Frances Nelson and Joe Shimko. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

John enjoyed all sports as a spectator and coach, including girls' basketball for Vinton County and Federal Hocking High Schools, and several other sports as well. He also loved fishing, golfing, and watching his own daughters play volleyball and coach. He never met a stranger and was known for his sense of humor.

Visitation will be held Saturday, June 7th from 11:00am - 1:00pm at Jagers and Sons Funeral Home in Athens, Ohio. Military honors will follow. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.