John Earl Wanner

John Earl Wanner was born July 11, 1926, to loving parents Mary and Milton Wanner. John was sixth in the birth order of fourteen siblings. Growing up on Southwest Avenue in South St. Louis afforded him a childhood rich with memories. He often reflected on those good old days, from times at Roe Elementary to expressing love for his dog Pal. John was drafted to the Army at eighteen and served proudly in World War II as a Construction Foreman with 1886th Engineer Aviation Battalion in Okinawa, Japan. He was married to Jewel Ann Welch on April 26, 1951. He often talked about their courtship, telling stories about dates at the Hi-Pointe and roller skating at the Arena. Blessed with seven children, Kay Gossett ( Bill, deceased ), David Montgomery (deceased), Dr. William Wanner (Valerie), Dr. Peggy Wanner-Barjenbruch (Olin, deceased), Diana Hickman (Eddie, deceased), Dee Bloss (Mike, deceased), John Wanner Jr. (Valerie), and Debbie Carpenter (Jimmy). As a young man, John was blessed with many talents and vocations. He was a natural athlete who enjoyed swimming and diving. John was a welterweight title holder of the Golden Gloves of America. His true passion was always under the hood of a car. John worked at the Independent Packing House for twenty-eight years. Later, John owned and operated Johnny's Auto Repair in University City. He and his son Johnny worked side by side at "the station" as they call it from 1970 until he retired in October of 2022. John was known for his excellent work ethic and honesty. He often spoke his mind. He had a great sense of humor and enjoyed a good laugh. His customers thought of him as a friend and frequently showered him with homemade pastries, food, and gifts. After retirement, John relaxed by watching TV and reminiscing about the days gone by. John passed away on May 10, 2023, in his sleep. His beloved wife Jewel, son David, and grandsons Joey Fuqua, Michael Bloss, Jason Wanner, and Karl Barjenbruch preceded him in death. His grandchildren will greatly miss him, Jewel Wheelis, Dawn Wyman, Sandy Manis, Mike Fuqua, Billy Gossett, Kim Adams, Eddie Hickman, Kelley Crockett, Christopher Wanner, Nicole Wanner, Natalie Steinhoff, Brian Wanner, and Jesse Barjenbruch. He leaves behind 27 great-grandchildren, 21 great-great-grandchildren, and scores of family and friends that will forever love and miss him. .

John Earl Wanner

July 11, 1926 - May 10, 2023