John Edward Dombrowski passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, February 19, 2024.
John was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 2, 1938, to Matthias and Marie Dombrowski. He spent his early years in the Chicago area before moving to Kalamazoo, Michigan. While attending Western Michigan University, John met the love of his life, Darrell Urban. They were married on August 17, 1963, and celebrated their 60th anniversary in 2023.
After graduating, John joined the U.S. Army Reserve and worked for the Bell Telephone Company. During the Vietnam era, John was called up to active duty and served in Stuttgart, Germany. After returning from his overseas assignment, John and Darrell moved back to the Chicago area where they lived for several years before joining much of Darrell’s family in southern California. While in California, John worked for many years as a custodian in a local elementary school where he was beloved by the students and faculty. Years later he returned to his Midwest roots, moving to Cleveland, and then settling in Mansfield, OH to be close to his grandchildren.
John and Darrell were devoted to their family, raising three successful children, Michelle who lives in Florida, Mark who lives in Ireland, and Jim who lives in Mansfield. John is the proud grandfather (“Pops”) of six grandchildren: Delaney, Connor, John, David, Matylda, & Stella.
John has rejoined Darrell, who passed away in December of 2023.
John and Darrell will be interred together at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery on February 26, 2024, at 12:45 pm. Family and friends are welcome to join John and Darrell’s family there to celebrate their lives and honor John’s service to his country.
Instead of flowers and in keeping with John’s love of America’s National Parks, please consider donating to the National Park Foundation (give.nationalparks.org).
Herlihy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Funeral Home: Herlihy Funeral Home