John Lenhart

John Anthony Lenhart (77) passed away on July 29, 2024 at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico after bravely facing several health complications. His infectious smile stayed with him even throughout his last days.

Born on January 28, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio, John was preceded in death by his parents Emily (Smetanka) and John Lenhart. He now joins his late brother Gerald Lenhart and is survived by his former wife Mary Coletta, his children Tony (wife Christine) and Annie (husband Steven); grandchildren, Andrew and Kaitlin Lenhart and Ellie, Claire, and Luke Dixon; sister Mary Jo (Lenhart) Perrette through whom his radiant smile, care, and personality will forever be cherished.

John's love of the outdoors began in his childhood where he frequently visited the Cleveland Metroparks. During his teenage years, he volunteered for the YMCA teaching wilderness skills in Canada. After John graduated from Dyke College in Cleveland, Ohio, he enlisted in the Air Force for 4 years spending 1 year in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he received a MBA from Marquette University.

John spent a successful career in sales for General Electric, W.W. Grainger, and Duff-Norton. During that time, John and his family lived in many different locations in the United States. After his retirement, John devoted much of his time as a volunteer for food banks and the National Parks in Colorado and Montana. He was instrumental in raising funds for his favorite non-profit organization, Camp Blue Skies, where he taught fishing to adults with developmental disabilities.

John will be dearly missed by his family and many friends. A celebration of life will be held at Myers Park Methodist Church in Charlotte, NC on August 12, 2024 at 2:00 pm. The family will receive guests in Jubilee Hall preceding the service from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Camp Blue Skies at https://campblueskies.org.