John Roth

John W. Roth, 94, of Erie, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born and raised in Erie, John lived a full and generous life marked by love, laughter, and devotion to family.

After finishing college and serving proudly in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, John moved to Indiana in 1961. There, he built a life with his beloved wife, Charlene, and together they raised their family. A hardworking and enterprising man, John started two successful businesses in Indiana and was respected for his integrity, work ethic, charity, and leadership.

John and Charlene shared a love of travel and adventure. They especially enjoyed their years in Bonita Springs, Florida, where John’s passion for boating flourished. Bonita Springs became a cherished gathering place for three generations of the Roth family, filled with memories of sunshine, laughter, and togetherness. John was a great storyteller whose humor, wisdom, and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather – a true role model for his entire family. He was also well known to break out in a chorus of Blue Skies (especially on Scout camp outs).

He is survived by his children, John W. (Crystal) Roth Jr., Chip (Trina) Roth, and Patricia Koch; grandchildren Megan (Brandon) Ford, Alexandra Roth (AJ) Johnson, Natalie Roth, Grace Roth, Spenser (Brenna) Roth, Will Koch, Charle Koch, step-grandchildren Courtney (Michael) Ducker, Lauren Einterz; and great-grandchildren Blaine & Evan Ford, Jaden and Ava Johnson, and Grayson Ducker.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, his wife Charlene, and his grandchildren John Whitney Roth III and Jake Harris Roth.

A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice in John’s honor or your local food bank (John volunteered at Zionsville food pantry).