John William Adams, 73, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, at his home.
He was born in South Bend, Ind., on July 28, 1947, to Herman and Lois (Palmer) Adams.
After graduating from the Indiana University School of Education with a Master of Science degree, John devoted his career to the education of children as a teacher, principal and administrator. During his tenure at Lincoln, Mill Creek, Kingsford Heights, Kesling and Indian Trail schools and finally the Central Office, John built enduring relationships with teachers, parents and students. John retired from the La Porte Community School Corporation as an assistant superintendent after a career lasting 36 years.
John’s love of trains was lifelong and he was an avid model railroader. He thoroughly enjoyed home improvement projects and was sure to pass down his knowledge, just as his father had before him. He was a devoted father and husband who made it a priority to spend time with his sons coaching baseball, attending academic competitions, and complaining about another lackluster Cubs season.
In retirement, John again found himself helping others, this time with their home improvement projects by working part time at the local hardware store. He was a member of the La Porte Yacht Club and enjoyed spending afternoons with his sister, Sandy, and her family on Pine Lake. John enjoyed watching “Dirty Jobs” and “The Big Bang Theory” and will be remembered for his laughter and smile.
On June 8, 1974, in La Porte, he married Marlene Joyce Guernsey, who preceded him in death on March 28, 2014.
He was also preceded in death by his parents and sister, Susan Adams.
Surviving are his sons, Warren “J.R.” Shrader of South Bend and Michael Adams of Indianapolis; four grandchildren, Joseph and Isaac Shrader (Laura Shrader) and Graham and Delaney Adams (Whitney Adams); sister, Sandy Scott of La Porte; and niece, Toni Baldwin-Dufour of Steinhatchee, Fla.
Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private graveside service for family and close friends will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, La Porte, Ind. 46350.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.