John Michael Gemind

Chief John M. Gemind, 87, of Copley, Ohio passed away on July 6, 2026.

John was born in Akron, Ohio. He spent 42 years of his life in the fire service, serving Copley Township for 24 years and became the first full-time Fire Chief. John departed Copley in 1981 for Fairlawn as he was offered the opportunity to lay the foundation and build the Fairlawn Fire Department where he spent the rest of his career, retiring in 2000. John was the owner and president of Electro-Mechanical Manufacturing, a small family business in Copley.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bennie of 60 years; his parents, Adelbert & Betty; brothers, Dutch, Bob, Mike and sister Mary.
He is survived by his brother, Pat; son Tim (Anne); daughter Tammy (John); granddaughters Brandy (Scott); Brittiany (Hunter); Erin & Lauren & great granddaughter Riley.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the Fairlawn Kiwanis Community Center, 3486 S. Smith Rd., Fairlawn. Family will receive guests from 9-10 am, with service and last alarm beginning at 10:30 am.