John Michael Ennis OBITUARY

John Michael Ennis OBITUARY

John Michael Ennis, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and honored veteran, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on August 26, 1945, in Madison, Wisconsin, John’s journey was one defined by service, faith, and an unwavering commitment to his family, church, and community. He grew up with a strong foundation of values that guided him throughout his entire life.

As a young boy, John’s parents moved the family to the Chicago area to prioritize his education. He went on to graduate from Fenwick High School in 1963, where he formed lifelong bonds and developed a deep sense of integrity. He then attended John Carroll University, graduating in 1967. While at John Carroll, John was a dedicated member of the university’s Army ROTC program, a formative experience where he honed the leadership skills, discipline, and commitment to service that would define his character.

Upon his graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army. His leadership and dedication during his military service were points of quiet pride for him and a lasting inspiration to his family. Following the conclusion of his service during the Vietnam War era, John transitioned into his professional career in civilian life.

He found his calling in benefits administration, first serving at the Newport News Shipyard, before moving on to Battelle Memorial Institute, where he dedicated the better part of his career. Throughout his professional life, John was respected for his expertise, diligence, and genuine care for the well-being of the people he supported.

John was the beloved husband of Margo Helen Citro Ennis, with whom he shared 58 beautiful years of marriage, a partnership built on deep love, mutual respect, and countless shared memories. Together, they built a beautiful, expansive family, raising their sons Douglas and Matthew, and welcoming their foreign exchange sons, Amilcar and Mauricio, into their hearts and home. John took great care to pass down the values of hard work, kindness, and loyalty to all of his children.

John’s greatest joy in his later years was his role as a grandfather. He took immense pride in his ten grandchildren: Collin, Anna, Jackson, Abby, Mateo, Lucas, Adrian, Guillermo, Ian, and Marcos, cherishing every milestone, game, graduation, and quiet moment spent together.

He is survived by his wife, Margo; his sons, Douglas (Sandy), Matthew (Julie), Amilcar (Claudia), and Mauricio (Emi); and his ten grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

John lived a full and honorable life, anchored by his love for his family and his country. His legacy of strength, warmth, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers please donate in John’s name to Meals on Wheels: 670 Harmon Ave, Columbus, OH 43223 (https://www.lifecarealliance.org) or Solve Maternity Homes: 1335 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205( https://solvehomes.org).

We invite you to join us in celebrating John’s life on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at 6:30 pm. We will gather at Westside Christian Church in Bradenton, FL to share memories, laughter, and love.