John J. Ughrin

John Joseph Ughrin died unexpectedly on October 7, 2026. He was born in Warren, Ohio on September 1, 1970 to the late John and Mary Anne (Kozlevcar) Ughrin, the oldest of 4 children.

John attended the University of Toledo, where he met the love of his life, Tina, whom he married in 1996. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physics, John got his teaching license and became a High School Math and Physics teacher in Toledo and Old Fort.

When they moved to Akron in 2006, John stayed home to homeschool his children, Victor and Katie. He took an active role in the Universalist Unitarian Church in Akron, where he taught religious education, was a youth group leader, and served on the Board of Trustees.

He and Tina also served their community by doing community organizing including “The Better Block” event which helped transform North Hill. From this, John became Executive Director of the North Hill Community Development Corporation.

Most recently, he worked with Tina to provide leadership development, planning, database development, data analysis, and report writing for grant funded projects through their business, Smile Minded Smartworks.

When he wasn’t working, John could be found gaming with his friends, gardening, fishing, or most importantly spending time with his family, especially his beloved grandson, Charlie. He is remembered by all who knew him for his sharp sense of humor and sharing his curiosity and knowledge about the world with anyone who would listen. He is most of all remembered for being dependable, someone everyone could rely on.

John is survived by his loving wife, Christina “Tina” (Mather) Ughrin; son, Victor (Holly) Ughrin; daughter, Kathryn Ughrin; grandson, Charles Ughrin; sisters, Valerie (Tim) Tanner, Anne (Moiz) Vadgamwala, and Sara (Pat Shepard) Ughrin; and many nieces and nephews.

In honoring his wishes, John will be cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Summit Metro Parks Foundation by visiting Give Now in Honor / Memory - Summit Metro Parks Foundation.

Services in the care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.