John 'Johnny' Anthony LaPolla

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Obituary

Concluding a 2-year battle with cancer and unwavering humor throughout his final days, Johnny passed peacefully on March 7, 2018 to join those he loved and dearly missed in this life.
Born May 28, 1955 Johnny was the oldest child of Anthony & Bernice, 'Dick & Bee' LaPolla. Raised in Niles, Ohio, Johnny's radio news broadcasting career began at an early age as a senior in high school in the Niles/Youngstown area and Sharon, PA. It continued in Columbus where he was employed by WCOL for 15 years and made Columbus his home for the past 42 years. A lifelong interest in cars changed his career path and led him to sales at Graham Ford and Jim Keim Ford before operating his own business, Johnny's Automotive since 2005.
A devoted Cleveland Browns and Indians fan, Johnny was also an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Along with his interest in cars and sports he also enjoyed golf, travel, beekeeping, wine-making, beer crafting and spending time with family and friends. Raised with an Italian influence, Johnny appreciated good food and would frequent family-owned restaurants and diners to enjoy a meal. He loved people and everyone loved Johnny. A dependable friend, with never a need to impress, Johnny exuded integrity in every way.
He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Theresa 'Tess' LaPolla, and his wife Jeannie, whose courageous battle with cancer ended Sept. 11, 2017. Johnny's quick witted humor, genuine love of life and unfailing optimistic attitude will be greatly missed and forever remembered by his sister Mary Jo (Brian) Hulburt, Virginia Beach, VA, brothers-in-law; Paul (Deb) Markey, Lady Lake, FL and Roger Markey of Delta, Ohio; beloved niece and nephews; Nancy Hulburt, Michael (Rachel) Hulburt, Aaron Markey, Allen (Phaedra) Markey, Joshua (Sarah) Markey, & Jacob (Elizabeth) Markey, 49-year best friend Jim Crowley, canine companions, Tillie & Rose, and the many friends and lives he touched with kindness and generosity throughout his life's journey.
At Johnny's request there will be no calling hours. His memory will be commemorated on March 24, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Sunset Cemetery, 6959 W. Broad Street, Galloway, Ohio 43119.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Johnny's friends and neighbors for their constant support and various acts of kindness shown to him during his illness, and Ohio Health Hospice for their compassionate services in assisting in his comfort and care the past four months. In Johnny's memory may we all persevere and never give up during times of struggle in our lives and enjoy every day with the ones we love. Condolences may be sent via www.johnquint.com. Services entrusted with JOHN QUINT TREBONI, 1177 W. Fifth Avenue, Columbus.


Condolences for John 'Johnny' Anthony LaPolla


From : richard wiener
To : family of johnny lapolla
Date: March 10th 2018

it is with heavy heart, i express this message....
i will miss john and his joyful conversations
here in timberbrook......i am his neighbor on
timberbrook lane, we talked several times, mary
jo, when you visited.....john loved the browns
and indians.....as i do also, jeannie and i exchanged flowers, a lot over the years.....
may the lord bless you.......
From : Christine Rafeld
To : John's family
Date: March 10th 2018

I'm saddened to learn of John's death. He was always such a loving parent to his daughter, Tess, and very involved in her care at Heinzerling. I always enjoyed talking with him. Bless you all.
From : Teri Silver Jordan
To : The family of John LaPolla
Date: March 10th 2018

John was a radio icon that I always admired ... and I'll never forget how thrilling it was for me when he hired me at WCOL. I value the years of counsel he gave me, and then when he joined me at WRVF (the tables were turned), it was wonderful. I have some sweet memories of him and his humorous way of dealing with life. I am very sorry for your loss--- everyone's. tsj
From : Marty James Trese
To : LaPolla family
Date: March 12th 2018

John was a consummate professional and had a wonderful personality. Enjoyed working with him at WCOL in the mid-80's. He was one of the good ones. Thoughts and prayers to you at this difficult time.
From : Derald 'Woody' Johnson
To : The Family of John LaPolla
Date: March 17th 2018

I'm so very saddened to hear of John's passing. I first met him when I came to Columbus to work at the old 'River 98.9,' WRVF, on Watermark Drive. I'll always remember that gravelly voice and wicked sense of humor and laugh.

John and I had lost touch for several years, but I tracked him down and bought my two youngest kids their cars from him while he was at Jim Keim Ford. And we last spoke when another of our 'River alums, Greg Jordan, passed a few years back. John was there to comfort him 'till the very end (the loyal friend described in his obit). Sadly, I didn't know of his condition or I'd have been there for him as well.

A wonderful guy ... my heartfelt condolences to all family and friends.

Derald 'Woody' Johnson
From : Pamela A Foust
To : John's family and friends
Date: March 25th 2018

The world has now lost two of the most wonderful people I have met in my entire life. They were so very good to my son Paul and to our whole family. Being with them was like a piece of Heaven on earth. May God bless each of you with fond memories and may He wrap you in His arms of love.