John J. Kinel, Jr., formerly of Newton Falls, Ohio, passed away peacefully from complications of ALS on July 1, 2025, (his 47th wedding anniversary) at Trinity Hospital in Livonia, MI, surrounded by his wife and son. He was born on Sept 3, 1955, in Ravenna, Ohio, son of John J. Kinel, Sr. and Anita B. Horner Kinel.

John lived in Newton Falls for 68 years when Patti and he moved to Livonia in 2024. He graduated from Newton Falls High School in 1973. He attended KSU Trumbull where he earned an Associate Degree in Business Management in 1977. While at KSU Trumbull, he worked at Falls Variety where he was an assistant manager. After graduation, he worked at Stambaugh-Thompson's, where he was in management at several stores until the company closed in 1997. He married the love of his life, Patricia Banko, on July 1, 1978, and they have enjoyed the past 47 years together. In 1998, he formed Kinel Services LLC and took care of many lawns in Newton Falls until 2023 when he could no longer continue.

John enjoyed the outdoors and was a long-suffering Cleveland sports fan. His work was not just mowing; he took care of his lawns. He especially enjoyed the time he spent with his grandsons. He loved to visit casinos but always said there was nothing like Vegas. John especially loved old movies.

John is survived by his wife, Patti; son, Andrew (Stacie) of Ann Arbor; three grandsons, John, Ryan and Joshua; two sisters, Jeannette and Diane; four brothers, Don, Larry, Van, and Nick; sister in law, Mercy; and many nieces and nephews all over the country.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Andrew and Henrietta Banko; brother, Richard; brothers-in-law Ken Morgan and Paul Banko; and sister-in-law Mary Beth Banko.

Cremation has already taken place. A private burial service will be held at Newton Falls Cemetery at a later date. The family has requested that all donations please be made to the Uganda Rural Fund 12829 River Rd. Richmond, VA 23238 in his memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444 (330)872-5440.  Family and friends may view his obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com