Deacon John G. Holthaus, 69, Sidney, passed away at his residence on May 19, 2014, at 8:03 p.m. after an extended illness.

He was born April 26, 1945, in Fort Loramie, to Lawrence and Marietta (Schemmel) Holthaus. His mother survives in Fort Loramie.

On June 3, 1972, he married Catherine Mertz, who survives in Sidney.

Also surviving are three children, Adam Holthaus, Westerville, Sarah (Heinrich) Holthaus-Montana, Seattle, Wash., and Drew Holthaus, Sidney; six grandchildren, James Holthaus, Elijah Ashton, Lukas Holthaus, Jaiden Montana, Cohen Montana and Bentley Montana; four sisters, Karen (Jim) Anthony, Fort Loramie, Arlene (Jerry) Wissman, Minster, Sylvia (Joe) Grimes, Piqua, and Jeanette (Dale) Ranly, Minster; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was a 1963 graduate of Fort Loramie High School and a 1971 graduate of the University of Dayton. He had a master's degree in education with English and special education as his background. He taught at Fairlawn School for two years and Anna for 28 years. He also was a barber for many years. He was ordained a deacon in 1998 and was a deacon at Holy Angels Catholic Church, where he was a member. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved his Gold Wing motorcycle, but he especially loved his job as deacon.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Holy Angels Catholic Church, the Rev. Dan Schmitmeyer officiating. Burial will follow at St. Michael's Cemetery, Fort Loramie.

Calling is 2-9 p.m. Thursday at Holy Angels Catholic Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Angels Catholic Church or Holy Angels Elementary School.

The family invites people to take their favorite photos of Holthaus to the viewing. A memory book will also be available at the church for friends and family to share their favorite memories.

Salm-McGill and Tangeman Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed at www.salm-mcgillandtangemanfh.com.