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.