John Franklin Canter, 73, of South Bloomfield, Ohio, passed away following a brief illness on August 28, 2026, at Grant Medical Center. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Carolyn Marie Canter, who was the love of his life and his devoted partner throughout their marriage.
Born on July 18, 1953, John lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to his family, and a generous heart.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lula Fern Canter and John Phillip Canter, and his beloved sister, Patricia “Mitzi” Caldwell.
John dedicated 36 years to Eaton Construction, where his strong work ethic and commitment earned him the respect of all who knew him. He was a member of Laborers Union Local 423 in Columbus. In retirement, he cherished the opportunity to spend more time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed fishing, sharing stories and jokes, and taking his beloved little Yorkie, Abby, on rides to the gas station to play his lottery tickets. These simple moments brought him great happiness.
Together, John and Carolyn built a family grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support.
John is lovingly remembered by his wife, Carolyn Marie Canter; his son, Jeff Canter (Charmaine Welsh); his daughter, Michelle (Josh) Havens; his cherished grandchildren, Cortney Canter, Tori Canter, Jacob Canter, Skyler Canter, Olivia Havens (Ryan Hunt), Hank Havens, and Barrett “Bear Bear” Havens; and his great-grandsons, Nathan Oiler and Parker Canter and many nieces and nephews.
Known for his willingness to lend a helping hand, John was also quick to share a joke and bring a smile to those around him. His kindness, dependability, and exceptional work ethic left a lasting impression on everyone, fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love he gave so freely, the laughter he shared, and the example he set through a life well lived.
John’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the memories they made with him.
The family will receive friends on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. followed by a Funeral Service on Tuesday, September 1, at 11:00 a.m. at Oliver-Cheek Funeral Home, 420 W. Main St, Ashville, OH. Howard Reed will offer words of comfort. Burial will take place at Harrison Township Cemetery, South Bloomfield, OH. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Adena Cancer Center, 4435 State Route 159, Chillicothe, OH 45601 or Circle Area Humane Society, 185 Island Rd. Circleville, OH 43113. Condolences can be shared with the family online at olivercheekfuneralhome.com.
Full service details and the family guest book are available at Oliver-Cheek Funeral Home.