John went all the way through Douglas Grade School with us as well as our Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops. He and his brother Ron lost their father early. "Salty" Green, as we were told, was the first young man from Belleville to enter the service in WW II but he came home. He passed away while John and Ron were still young however. A smart guy, "Johnny on the spot" as Miss Buehler, our sixth grade teacher once remarked. I only saw him once after Jr. High with our kids at the Santa Claus parade downtown at Thanksgiving possibly 35-40 years ago. Rest in Peace John. Rest in Peace.
I am so very sorry to hear about John's passing. He was so friendly, had such a great smile and laugh. On top of that, he was one heck of a good defensive football player. Just tenacious as he could be and never gave up. He didn't stop until he had the opposing player on the ground, whether it was a solo tackle or gang tackle. He helped make the 1962 team as great as it wsa. Peace and comfort for his family. Rest in peace, John. Charlie
Yes John, The Mighty Maroons will always remember you and your tenacious efforts as number 50, our rock-solid defensive center. You led our team with most career tackles (184), most season tackles (137) and most solo tackles in a game (16). In fact, you had the most solo tackles in every game of the 1962 season. The sports writers recognized you with an All State-Special Mention, plus All District and All Conference honors. When you weren’t destroying the opponents game plan on the field, you were filling a special role as our behind the bench cheerleader, always keeping the team fired up with your contagious Mighty Maroons Spirit. So RIP, old teammate, but don’t give up any yardage. Keep that “fore arm shiver” strong for your goal line stand. Check the scoreboard - you won again.
So sorry to hear of John's passing, had a few classes with him and he always had a big smile. John also played a big part on the maroons football teams, so I salute you and RIP!
When we were in grade school, John was our Rambo, when we played war games at Eastside Park off Forest Ave. on weekends. He always had the best equipment that came from his dads surplus supplies. Great friend all through the years. RIP! Doug
We don't need to be nudged that we've reached that fragile age when we lose friends. Gosh, maybe they'll lose us. This constantly reminds me to enjoy each day, encourage the wonder I feel, and promote the curiosity that still bubbles within. When I think of John, my memory halts with that warm smile of his. Very generous, comfortable, and friendly. I send condolences to all whom he held dear.
Bruce McMillan
John went all the way through Douglas Grade School with us as well as our Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops. He and his brother Ron lost their father early. "Salty" Green, as we were told, was the first young man from Belleville to enter the service in WW II but he came home. He passed away while John and Ron were still young however. A smart guy, "Johnny on the spot" as Miss Buehler, our sixth grade teacher once remarked. I only saw him once after Jr. High with our kids at the Santa Claus parade downtown at Thanksgiving possibly 35-40 years ago. Rest in Peace John. Rest in Peace.
Charlie Manker
I am so very sorry to hear about John's passing. He was so friendly, had such a great smile and laugh. On top of that, he was one heck of a good defensive football player. Just tenacious as he could be and never gave up. He didn't stop until he had the opposing player on the ground, whether it was a solo tackle or gang tackle. He helped make the 1962 team as great as it wsa. Peace and comfort for his family. Rest in peace, John. Charlie
Jack Wittlich
Yes John, The Mighty Maroons will always remember you and your tenacious efforts as number 50, our rock-solid defensive center. You led our team with most career tackles (184), most season tackles (137) and most solo tackles in a game (16). In fact, you had the most solo tackles in every game of the 1962 season. The sports writers recognized you with an All State-Special Mention, plus All District and All Conference honors. When you weren’t destroying the opponents game plan on the field, you were filling a special role as our behind the bench cheerleader, always keeping the team fired up with your contagious Mighty Maroons Spirit. So RIP, old teammate, but don’t give up any yardage. Keep that “fore arm shiver” strong for your goal line stand. Check the scoreboard - you won again.
James Zaring
John was an integral part of our undefeated team. John played on the defensive line and was not as big
as the other lineman. However, John overcame his size difference with heart, desire, and commitment.John's
tenacious style of play was respected by everyone. I'm proud to call him teammate and I will miss him.
My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He was a giant amoung men...and played like one.
Michael Hornacek
So sorry to hear of John's passing, had a few classes with him and he always had a big smile. John also played a big part on the maroons football teams, so I salute you and RIP!
Mike
Hugo Ehret
Will miss John. Had great times with him through all grades.
Harry Sterling
I had not seen John since I don't remember when but he was always such a happy guy.
Knew him all the way through school. I recall John ringing the Liberty Bell after the Eastside game. Different world today.
Douglas Hough
When we were in grade school, John was our Rambo, when we played war games at Eastside Park off Forest Ave. on weekends. He always had the best equipment that came from his dads surplus supplies. Great friend all through the years. RIP! Doug
Sally Goldenberg (Landau)
We don't need to be nudged that we've reached that fragile age when we lose friends. Gosh, maybe they'll lose us. This constantly reminds me to enjoy each day, encourage the wonder I feel, and promote the curiosity that still bubbles within. When I think of John, my memory halts with that warm smile of his. Very generous, comfortable, and friendly. I send condolences to all whom he held dear.
James Hamilton
PLAYED FOOTBALL WITH JON AND MARCHED IN THE BLACK KNIGHTS. HE ALSO MARCHED IN THE MILLSTADT CRUSADERS, GREAT GUY AND A HELL OF A MUSICIAN.