Jon Thomas Rarick's Obituary
RARICK, Jon Thomas, age 85, of Centerville, passed away Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.
Jon was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, on February 26, 1939, to Paul and Mary Rarick and later moved to Detroit, Michigan, where he spent his childhood. He attended the Holy Name School until eighth grade and was an altar boy. While he attended Pershing High School, he joined the United States Air Force. He served honorably for 30 years, achieving the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He was even offered the position of Chief Master Sergeant, overseeing the entire United States Air Force. His overseas tours were in London and Thailand. While traveling the country during his Air Force years, he shared his love of camping with his family and challenged the kids to see how fast the camper could be set up. Upon retiring, he earned his Bachelor’s degree from Park College and his Master’s degree from Central Michigan University.
Jon loved reading biographies and watching vintage movies on the Turner Classic Movies channel. He was an excellent cook, praised for his spaghetti sauce, which he called “Italian gravy.” He enjoyed taking his family out to his favorite restaurants, where they were always treated like family: The Joe Kiss Hickory Bar-B-Q on Brown St, KD’s BBQ, Double Days, and Venecia/ Troni’s.
Jon was defined as generous, trustworthy, and with a dry sense of humor. He loved music, especially country and bluegrass. He enjoyed teaching and playing the guitar and banjo. As a young man, he played music at various local bars and at his home. His family thought of him as their Roy Clark, with his talent for playing so many instruments.
The family will remember his love for them, his frequent use of black-labeled Chapstick, the aroma of his pipe, and his many dogs over the years. In particular, a rescued Wheaten Terrier named Cutter (Jon loved saying, “Welcome back, Cutter”); a golden retriever named Sadie; several standard poodles named Sabrina, Rick, and Dottie; and a miniature golden doodle named Lucy.
He loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Brenda will always remember Jon as her best friend, companion, and true soulmate. Jon and Brenda were married at St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church in Miamisburg, Ohio.
Jon was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Mary Rarick, and sister-in-law, Susie Rarick. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Brenda Rarick; two sons, Jon (Janet) Rarick Jr. and Don (Angel) Rarick; one daughter, Shawn (David) Chandler; step-son, David Kleen; two step-daughters, Jennifer (Kirk) Kleen, and Shannon (Chris) Rose; 14 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; one brother, Paul Rarick Sr.; and one sister, Penny Boyne.
Private services are at the convenience of the family. Conner & Koch Funeral Home will be serving the family. Condolences at www.connerandkoch.com
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