John T. Polchin

John Thomas Polchin, 82, passed away peacefully at his home on February 14, 2026, following a brief illness, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on September 22, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, to John and Theresa (Repasky) Polchin, John grew up with a deep appreciation for faith, family, and hard work—values that shaped every part of his life. A proud graduate of Deming-New Lyme High School’s final class of 1961, John attended Kent State University - Ashtabula branch.

On January 11, 1964, at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Jefferson, he married Ruth V. Boyle. For 62 years, John and Ruth shared a bond built on love, laughter, and unwavering devotion, raising their family together on their cherished dairy farm. John dedicated his life to dairy farming, taking great pride in the land he worked and the herd he cared for. His strong work ethic, steady hands, and quiet perseverance defined him. From 1978 to 2009, alongside the demands of the farm, he also served the Pymatuning Valley Local School District—most memorably as a school bus driver and head mechanic—earning the respect of students and colleagues alike. Faith and service were central to John’s life. A lifelong member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, he gave generously of his time, including more than 20 years as a trustee of Cherry Valley Township. He also served as president of District 1 Holstein Association, always ready to lend a helping hand to fellow farmers, and for many years, he enjoyed officiating high school basketball games through the Ohio High School Athletic Association. Beyond his work, John found joy in life’s simple pleasures—bowling in Rome, cheering on Cleveland’s sports teams, caring for his beloved cats and dogs, and dancing polka with Ruth, their steps always perfectly in tune. His greatest happiness, though, came from time spent with his family. His children and grandchildren were his deepest pride and the heart of everything he did.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth; his children, Anthony (Tammy Leroy) Polchin and Rosmarie (Myron) Eldred; and his treasured grandchildren, Teresa Polchin, Troy Polchin, Raeann Eldred (Collin Stewart), and Katie Eldred, who brought endless joy to his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Wade; and his brother, Joseph, in infancy.

A private Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Jefferson, followed by burial in Cherry Valley Cemetery.

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