John Taranto Jr

John Taranto, age 84, was born August 30, 1939 in Columbus Ohio. He died on June 27, 2024 at home with his family by his side. John is survived by his wife Suzi of 64 years, whom he met while they both worked at Hart’s Department store. He is survived by his “little” brother Wendell Taranto (wife Astrid), son Mike Taranto (wife Kim), grandchildren Bethany, Drew and Allie, son Dan Taranto, grandchildren Anthony and Maria, daughter Debbie Taranto (partner Sheryl) grandchildren Jacob, Noah and Sophie. Numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and PA family.

John was born to John and Wilda Taranto of Columbus Ohio. He graduated from Linden McKinley High School, and he served in the Army. John started his career with Big Bear stores at the age of 15 as a bag boy and worked his way up to Director of Security for Big Bear and Harts. He had a second career as a Pastor with Christ The King Church, traveling the world with Pastor Bob Swanger evangelizing. John then had a “fun” career, helping his children, Dan and Debbie with their restaurants where you would find him many nights, in front of the ovens, cooking pizzas. 

John’s greatest joy were his grandchildren. He loved especially, spending time with them at the beach. He was a great husband, dad and Papa.

Private ceremony with the family at one of his favorite places, The Triple T Ranch, where the family will gather to share memories and stories of our patriarch.