John Lee Werth

John Lee Werth, loving husband, father of two children, and grandfather of two grandchildren, passed away at the age of 74, on Saturday, October 2, 2021, surrounded by his family.

John was born on June 24, 1947, in Butler, Pennsylvania – one of seven children born to Richard Paul and Gertrude Marie (Gibson) Werth. He was a graduate of Butler High School and attended University of Cincinnati for Engineering. On August 2, 1969, he married his high school sweetheart Mary Kay McClaine. The two have made Lorain County their home since 1970 – where they raised two children, Marnie and Ryan.

John worked for 32 years and 5 months as an Air Traffic Controller in Oberlin and received numerous proclamations and recognitions for his record and performance, including his handling of the events of September 11th.

John was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, an avid golfer and sports fan, and loved spending time with his family. He was a loving father and grandfather, and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren, Hunter and Sailor.

John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Kay (née: McClaine); his children, Marnie Werth-Waller (Mark) of Lorain and Ryan Werth of San Francisco, CA; his grandchildren, Hunter Waller and Sailor Waller; three brothers, James Werth (Judy) of Lake Mary, FL, Robert Werth (Rita) of Las Vegas, NV, and Thomas Werth (Debbie) of Butler, PA; his two sisters, Carol Greenberg (Michael) of Palm Desert, CA and Joyce Werth (John Gillis) of Modesto, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Richard Paul and Gertrude Marie Werth (née: Gibson), brother William, and nephew Ian McClosky.

Public visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, October, 7, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral services at 12:00 noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church; 200 St. Joseph Drive, Amherst. The Rev. Fr. Timothy O’Connor, will officiate.  

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to “Friends of Flight 93” at https://www.flight93friends.org/donate.

Please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.

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