John M. Minard, 82, of Emporium, PA passed away at Penn Highlands Elk, St. Marys, PA on Saturday (June 1, 2024) morning following a period of declining health. He was born July 7, 1941 in Emporium, PA a son of the late Martin and Mary Dolan Minard. On August 14, 1965 in St. Mark Catholic Church he married Mary Grace Normanly.

John graduated from Emporium High School in the class of 1959 and continued his education at Mansfield State Teachers College and then from Saint Bonaventure University from which he received a master’s degree. He retired from Cameron County School District where he taught for 36 years. John also was a basketball coach for 25 years and also was an advisor of the forestry club for several years, sharing his love for the outdoors with his students. His exceptional contribution to local sports was recognized in 2021 when he was inducted into the Cameron County Sports Hall of Fame, an honor reflecting his significant impact on the community and its young athletes. John loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. An avid golfer, he especially enjoyed being on the links with his friends and lest we forget rooting on the Cleveland Browns, never wavering in his support despite the ups and downs of the team. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but for the love and kindness he shared with his family and friends. He leaves behind—a legacy of love, learning, and an unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of others.

In addition to his wife he is survived by a son, J. Patrick Minard (Lori), Kersey; daughter, Michelle Minard (Chris), Emporium; two grandchildren: Austin (Beth) Minard, Jenna (Zach) Wortman; two great-grandchildren: Mason and Caroline; sister, Regina Caton, Emporium and a number of loving nieces, and nephews. 

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Martina Husted and Mary Ann Park and a niece Karen Ferut.

Visitation will be at the Barnett Funeral Home on Tuesday from 6-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the St. Mark Catholic Church, 235 East Fourth Street, Emporium, PA on Wednesday, (June 5, 2024) at 10:30 AM with Rev. Paul S. Siebert, Pastor, as Celebrant.

Burial will be in the St. Mark Catholic Cemetery, Emporium, PA

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Cameron County Ambulance Service, 299 E. Second St., Emporium, PA 15834 or to Cameron County SPCA, 678 South Mountain Rd., Emporium, PA 15834

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net 

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.