John W. Shoff

John William Shoff passed away on October 19, 2026, at Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Born on December 30, 1945, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Robert G. Shoff and Esther G. Sheaffer.

John leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Barbara Ann Shoff, and their four daughters: Jeanne Marie Killinger and her husband, Bruce; Meredith Shoff Receveur and her husband, Jim; Rebecca Ann Mixell and her husband, Donnie; and Deborah Kay Reavis and her husband, Marty. He is now reunited with his son, Robbie Stuart, who passed away 20 years ago. John also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous joy and pride.

John was a devoted husband, Dad, Pappy, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend. He lived a life filled with love for his family, service to his country and community, and an appreciation for the simple things that made life special.

John proudly served in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Airman First Class (A1C). During his service, he worked as a B-52 Stratofortress Aircrew Chief, completing four years of active duty followed by four years in the reserves. His love for the B-52, his crew, and the memories of his time in the Air Force stayed with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, John continued his strong work ethic through several careers. He spent approximately 20 years as a floor foreman at Carlisle Tire and Wheel and later worked at Tractor Supply and as a custodian at Bel Air Elementary School.

John volunteered with the Penn Township Fire Department for more than 30 years, serving as an Assistant Fire Chief. He took great pride in serving his community and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Some of John’s happiest moments were spent enjoying the outdoors. He and Barb loved packing up their camper and hitting the road, spending weekends and vacations under the stars, gathering around a campfire with family and friends. Those simple moments together were some of life’s greatest treasures.

John had a special love for nature and all its creatures. He enjoyed watching the hummingbirds, squirrels, cardinals, and other wildlife that visited his garden. He took pride tending to his peonies and his famous “super” petunias. Whether he was working in his garden, feeding the birds, or simply sitting beneath his favorite tree watching the world around him, John found happiness in the little things.

He also loved spending time in the kitchen, making homemade beef jerky, his famous chili, canning sauerkraut, and preparing meals in his smoker. Sharing food was just one of the many ways he showed his love for those around him.

John was quite the storyteller, always ready to share a memory, a laugh, or a story from years gone by. His easygoing personality and sense of humor made even the most ordinary moments memorable. And anyone who knew John could probably hear him saying one of his favorite words, “Whatever.” Such a simple word, but one that will forever bring a smile to the faces of those who knew and loved him.

As a dad, John was always there when his family needed him. He had a way of making it easy to ask for help because helping others was simply part of who he was. No matter how big or small the task was, he was always willing to lend a hand. And as a Pappy, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He would move mountains for them if he could. He was fun, a little mischievous, and always ready to share a laugh or get into a little trouble with them. He loved each one of them with his whole heart.

Above everything else, John was a loving husband. He and Barb shared 62 years of marriage built on love, friendship, laughter, and a lifetime of memories. They were not only husband and wife but each other's best friends. Their playful banter and daily teasing were just part of the special bond they shared, bringing laughter and joy to even the simplest moments.

While we will miss his stories, his laughter, his mischievous ways, and even his famous “Whatever,” we will forever cherish the memories he gave us. We will see him in the flowers that bloom, the birds that visit, the campfires that bring us together, and the little moments that remind us of him.

Funeral services are being finalized by the family. Please check back often.