John L. Beard

John Lewis Beard, age 88, of Sylvania, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at Sylvania Care and Rehab. He was born on November 23, 1924 to Dr. Rex and Madeline (Quidort) Beard in Pioneer, Ohio. John attended Hillsdale College and was a member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. He served our country proudly in World War II as a Merchant Marine. Following his time in the service, John married the love of his life, Barbara Ralph on October 21, 1949 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Downtown Toledo. He was a longtime salesman and real estate broker until retiring in 1986. John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Frances (Beard) McAdams. John is survived by his loving family; beloved wife of 63 years, Barbara Beard; son, Lewis (Nancy) Beard; daughter, Laurie (Bob) Shamas; grandchildren, Robin (Jeff) Giovanatti , Robbie and Ashley Shamas and Heather (Mike) Shea; great-grandchildren, Ali Shea and Aiden Giovanatti; and many special cousins and dear friends.

The family will receive guests on Monday from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo (419-473-0300). Funeral Services will begin Monday at 12:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Officiating will be Pastor Lars Olson. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St., Toledo, Ohio 43604 or the Sight Center of Ohio.