John Henry Pruitt
John Henry Pruitt, age 74, of Shelby, died Sunday, November 13, 2016 at his home.
He was born August 15, 1942 in Findlay, Ohio the son of the late Paul A. and Ruth Kate (Groth) Pruitt. John attended school in Findlay and began his working career as a traffic signal repairman. He worked his way up to become the Traffic Signal Supervisor for the city of St. Joseph, MO. Along with his job as Traffic Signal Supervisor for the city of St. Joseph, John was also a reserve police officer. John was quite the handyman. He could fix anything from plumbing to roofing to electrical and anything in between. John was willing to teach anyone anything he knew if they were willing to listen and learn. He loved the outdoors and was very proud to keep his property meticulous. He was very helpful to his neighbors and would help anyone who needed assistance. Karen and John did everything together and the time they spent together was cherished by both of them. He enjoyed sports cars, ice skating and spending time with their family. John was a veteran of the United States Air Force.
John is survived by his wife of 23 years, Karen L. (Stewart) Pruitt, whom he wed on July 19, 1993; 2 children: John (Amanda) Pruitt of Arkansas and Johanna Pruitt of Missouri. 2 step sons: Ryan (Britta) Smith of Mansfield and Aaron Smith (Jessica) of Shelby; 7 grandchildren; 1 great grandson; 4 sisters: Connie (Ron) Strine of Shelby, William Pruitt of Mansfield, Brenda Amato of Florida, and Arthur Eugene (Dawn) Pruitt of Lexington. He was preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter, Arryah Smith.
Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, November 16, 2016 from 6-8 PM at the Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 10 AM by Rev. Brad McBee. Graveside committal services will be conducted Thursday at 2:30 PM at Maple Grove Cemetery in Findlay with military honors conducted by the Hancock County Veterans Memorial Squad.
Memorial expressions may be made to Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, PO Box 158, Mound City, MO 64470. To leave a condolence or share a memory with John’s family, please visit penwellturner.com