John F. Love

John F. Love, 86, of S. Pasadena, FL., died peacefully on August 28, 2020, with family at his side. He was born in Buffalo, New York and was a long-time resident of Clarence, New York. John will be remembered for his years of outstanding service, dedication, and commitment to public service. He was a volunteer fireman for 45 years and held leadership positions as president, board member, and commissioner of Fire District #1. John was originally elected as Clarence town councilman in 1985 and served four consecutive terms focusing as a liaison to the fire companies, youth center, conservation council, roads and drainage, parks, and veteran organizations. He was particularly proud of his work on the rails to trails/pathway program so many now enjoy. From 1963-1995 John taught industrial arts at Clarence High and Clarence Middle schools. As the high school golf coach, he passed on his passion for golf to many. John always enjoyed hearing from former students and was particularly pleased when told he made a positive impact in their lives. He was active in the Clarence and New York State Teachers’ Associations and served as a delegate to state and national organizations. He served on the board of directors and as president of the C.C.S. Federal Credit Union. John was in the Navy on the USS Cascade (AD-16), was a member of the New York State Parks Police force and was a longstanding member of American Legion Post #838. In retirement, John enjoyed summers in 1,000 Islands New York, winters in Florida and taking cruises. He loved spending time with family and friends and continued to give sage advice until the end of his life. His sense of humor and tell-it-like-it-is quips were steadfast. John was predeceased by his parents Myron and Margaret Love, as well as his siblings Jerry Love, Jim Love and Joanne Ihle. John leaves behind his loving wife of 59 years, Dorothy Love; children Karen Wilson (Jim Wilson) and Kelly Love (Tom Sims) and Kevin Love; and brother-in-law Edward Domaracki (Lona). John was a devoted grandfather to John Michael Wilson, Kayleigh Wilson, Emily Wilson, Abigail Wilson, Joseph Wilson and Ian Love; dearest uncle to Jeffrey Love, Linda Blasik, Susan Fields, Patty Wattengel (Rick), John Blasik, Susan Smith, Barbara Willging (Dan), Joanne Upson (Steve), Melissa Arnow (Lou), and Val Ihle (Sue), and beloved great uncle. The family requests that you honor and celebrate John’s life as he lived his – with love for family and friends, positive community impacts, and treating people with kindness and respect. A military honors funeral service will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery, St. Petersburg, FL. Please join the family for a virtual toast and raise a glass of schnapps during the next Buffalo Bills game...or take a day off and go fishing in his memory.