John F. Kindsvatter, Jr. died March 21st at Wesley Glen Retirement Community in Columbus OH after a lengthy illness. His loving wife of 57 years, Cheryl (“Ebie”) Ebert Kindsvatter was by his side to his passing.
John was the son of the late Rev. John and Lillian Kindsvatter and grew up in Wooster OH. He and Ebie fell in love while working at Camp Mowana, a Lutheran Church camp in Mansfield OH, and two years later they married. John was a graduate of Wittenberg University in Springfield OH and Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg PA. Together, he and Ebie went on to serve many Lutheran Churches including Bridgeport CT, Boston MA, Lewisburg OH, and Philadelphia PA. In 1982 John was called back to Mansfield as Director of Outdoor Ministries in the Ohio Synod of the Lutheran Church in America (LCA) which included Camp Mowana in Mansfield and Camp Luther in Conneaut OH. He later served a congregation in Cortland OH and finished his career of more than 50 years in Columbus OH. After retirement he continued to serve several area churches as a supply and interim pastor.
He is survived by Ebie, children Jonathan (Jessi), and Viveca, and was preceded in death by daughter Angela. He is also survived by sister Beth Chesbro (Tim) and twin brother Rev. Charles Kindsvatter (Barbara) and many close family members. John’s passion for running, fishing, animals, pets, jewelery-making, and leisurely strolls was only rivalled by his unwavering dedication to connecting with people from all walks of life. Throughout his life, John was a fierce advocate and ally for marginalized groups, making sure all felt welcomed and loved. It was a testament to his faith and depth of character. Whether among family, close friends, his church community, or the compassionate souls at Wesley Glen, John’s generous spirit and warmth touched each life he encountered.
A service to celebrate John’s life will take place Thursday, May 30 at 2:00 at Lord of Life Lutheran Church – 2480 W. Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, OH 43235. In lieu of flowers please donate to Hopewood Outdoors (formerly Lutheran Outdoor Ministries of Ohio) at hopewoodoutdoors.org.