Robert Landis John, Jr.

Robert “Bob” Landis John Jr., age 84, passed away on June 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with multiple forms of cancer.

Bob was born on October 4, 1941 in Plainfield, NJ to Robert and Betty (Barraclough) John. After moving to Pennsylvania, he graduated from Beaver Valley High School and went on to graduate from Grove City College. During his college years, he met and later married Nancy Mitchell. Together they had 3 children, Rob, Julie and David. Bob went on to start a career as a car salesman but found his true calling in life by taking his love and knowledge of food (ice cream in particular) and customer service to become a successful franchise owner of two Baskin Robbins stores, and later owned a Mister Doughnut store and a hot dog shop called the Doghouse. He then shifted his career to hold several District and Regional Manager positions of various franchises including a Chick-fil-a at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered most for having lived life with energy, curiosity, and a true entrepreneurial spirit. He was always dreaming up a new idea, chasing an opportunity, or getting himself into a little trouble along the way — often with a smile and a story to tell afterward. He had a way of keeping life interesting and making those around him laugh. Whether he was teasing family, sharing a funny story, or striking up conversation with someone new, he found joy in bringing smiles to others. His humor, wit, and playful spirit left an impression everywhere he went. Bob found joy in both adventure and life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time fishing, enjoying the peace of being out on the water and making memories along the way. He loved skiing (water & snow), boating, wood working, walking, reading and sharing these activities with family. When spending time with family and friends at Lake Chautauqua, he was always the captain of the boat that all the kids wanted to learn to water ski on. Other activities throughout his life include being involved in many community organizations: member of Lions Club and serving as Elder at Steffin Hill Presbyterian Church just to name a few.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Jill John and her children, Julie Jackson and Laurel Hecht; his children, Rev. Dr. Rob John and his wife Kate, Julie French and her husband Bill, and Dave John and his wife Maria; his sister, Cathy John; his former brother-in-law Lawrence Connor and their children Beth Northrup and Andrew Connor, and his cherished grandchildren, Nicole French, Julian John, Mitchell French, Brandon French, Marcus John, Calvin John, and Wesley John; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Landis John Sr and Elizabeth “Betty” John, and his first wife and the mother of his children; Nancy Mitchell John.

He took great pride in his family and treasured the moments they spent together. He taught everyone how to not give up when life knocks you down, instead, you get back up and find a new path. He leaves behind a legacy of stories, laughter, and love that will continue to live on through all who knew him. In accordance with Bob’s wishes, there will be no public service.

His family will hold a celebration of life, date to be determined, to honor him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society, in his name.

Sanders Funeral Home.

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