John became my brother-in-law approximately 20 years ago and since that time we became fast friends. We shared a passion for the game of golf and played numerous rounds of golf together mainly when my family and I resided in Port Orange on the east coast of Florida. Beyond the game of golf, John was generous, had a great sense of humor, wonderful wit and was one of the nicest people I ever met. Ever since our family moved to southwest Florida approximately 5 years ago, the times we shared together were few and far between. Fortunately, we acquired a home with a pool that apparently needs constant attention. I say that because it wasn’t unusual for John (and Vicki) to travel 4 hours to the Fort Myers, fix our pool problem, have lunch with us at a restaurant and travel back home on the same day. It’s funny what you remember at a time like this - On one of these trips, John decided to stay the night, so we could play golf the next day. The date was Sunday, April 26, 2015 and we played at River Hall Country Club in Fort Myers. I was returning from knee surgery and John was returning from an extended period in the hospital, so we were both looking forward to playing golf again, even if it was only nine holes. We both played without pain and played beyond our expectations. I vividly remember one shot in particular. Hole #7 was a long par 4 and John’s second shot was approximately 100 short of the green in the left rough. After taking his stance, he took a mighty swing and the ball travelled high in the air, over the greenside bunker, on the elevated green and the ball rolled to within one inch of the cup for an amazing par 4. The smile on his face was pricelist and he was so happy, and I was happy for him. We didn’t share a lot of memories as of late, but we made the most of each one. Neil Young who is a singer, songwriter and guitarist wrote a song about searching for a Heart of Gold. We’ll I’ve been lucky to find a few people in my life who have a heart of gold and one of them is John Conrad. I’m grateful for the time we shared together. As a club golf professional, I would occasionally provide him with a few golf lessons, but whether he realized it or not, John was giving me life lessons about how to be a better man. Besides being with my wife and family, playing acoustic guitar and seeing all my children surpass any of my accomplishments, there is nothing like playing golf with my buddy who has a heart of gold.

Although we only get to visit Florida a few times a year we could always count on John and Viki to drop what they had going on to spend time with us, especially at a Tiki Bar or a sunset deck. John is a good soul and was always accepting of new family and friends that came into his life. He was extremely kind to our kids and enjoyed horse-playing with them when we were visiting. Without question we are blessed to have met John and cherish the impact he had on our lives. He will be sorely missed but I'm sure he's in Heaven with Jim Jr., Ruth, Pete and his other family members who passed before, ensuring they being taken care of well before his own needs.

Jody and I loved John. In 5 short years he became a friend and a member of our family. I want to remember:
--"pop pop" adventures with Aiden and Alexa.
--His smile and hearty laugh.
--His love of food (except Brussels).
--His love of travel and adventure.
--His lasagna.
But most of all I will remember how John made people feel special. He loved life!!
We miss him❤️❤️

Dear John, 
Thank You for being an incredibly great friend to everyone whose life you have touched over the years. We will always cherish the memories you blessed us with, your smile, your laughter and your kindness were a bright light burning in the lives of everyone who knew you. We will all miss you, John Con, Goodbye My Old Friend

You hear a lot of people said that someone was a good man, well in this case, John WAS a good man, quick to smile, quick to help. A brother from another mother, the world needs more John Conrads, rest easy old friend.....