John F. Catrone

John F. Catrone, age 93, of Orrville, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare in Wooster, following a period of declining health.

He was born on September 13, 1931, in Orrville, Ohio to the late Frank and Rosa (Serpa) Catrone. He was married to the love of his life, the late Meda (Kreachbaum) Catrone on November 26, 1949, in Greenup, Kentucky.

John served in the U.S. Army from January 1952 until August 1953. After working for the Cottage Creamery Company for almost 40 years and Dairy Farm Products until their closing, he went on to retire from Smith Dairy in 1994.

Many hours were dedicated to his love of horse racing alongside his brothers, training and racing trotters over the years. A proud day came when one filly, “Swing Anna Miss” went on to win the 2-year-Old Filly Trotting Ohio Sires Stakes Championship at Northfield Park, breaking the track record in 2001. She also won the track record at her hometown, The Wayne County Fair

John enjoyed vegetable gardening and was an avid fan of the Orville Red Riders. He took pride in preparing Sunday dinners for his family as well as sharing many outings with them. He will be remembered for his humble nature and his unwavering strength during times of adversity.

Surviving is his brother, Mike Catrone of Orrville; John’s three children; Bambi Hershberger of Orrville, Sue (Marion) Gingerich of Apple Creek, and Beth (Russell) Hershey of Wooster; grandchildren, J.D. Hershberger of Orrville and Mark (Elisabeth) Gingerich of Massillon; great grandchildren, Drew Lepley and Alex Hershberger; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by sisters, Kate Frias, Jenny Rey, and Mary Lorson; brothers, Tony, Don, Joe, and Nick Catrone; his daughter, Sandra Harper; and son-in-law David Hershberger.

There will be no calling hours. Burial and graveside services took place at Crown Hill Cemetery in Orrville. Arrangements are being made by Murray Funeral Home in Creston. Expressions of online condolences may be made on the funeral home’s web site.