John Thomas Byrne

John T. Byrne, “Happy Jack”, 85, of Medina, Ohio passed away peacefully, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Happy Jack was born April 9, 1940 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late John and Rita (Pitts) Byrne. He moved to Medina from Cuyahoga County in 1989.

He worked at General Motors, Parma for 39 years.  A longtime member of the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.). Jack loved nothing more than riding one of his Harley’s with Kathy on the back, and sharing the road with friends. He treasured his family and friends and was often found with his HOG dinner group or daily breakfasts at Yours Truly. Happy Jack never met a stranger, he had an innate ability to make everyone he met feel important, seen and valued—a gift that left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

He will be greatly missed by his family and the many friends who were blessed to know him.

Survived by his wife Kathy, of 34 years, his children, Jeannie (Sean) Caughey, Joe (Rebecca) Byrne and Jeff (Jo Ann) Byrne; grandchildren, Meghan and Maggie Caughey, Makenna and Gabriel Bryne, Lydia and Carson Byrne, Chalina and Natalia Willis; a brother, Daniel (Lorraine) Byrne; sister-in-law, Lee Byrne; and numerous nieces and nephews. Happy Jack also leaves behind his special pups, Trudy and Tramp.  He was preceded in death by his brother, William Byrne.

At John’s request, cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held in Spring 2026.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Happy Jack’s name.

In Happy Jack’s honor, raise a cup of coffee and share a story—just as he would have wanted.

The Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City, OH has the honor of serving the Byrne Family.

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