John has been happily married to Cheryl Witker since 1967. They raised three children and have eight grandchildren. John attended Purdue University and graduated with a BS in Civil Engineering. After graduation, he went into the service. Then he spent two years in the US Army, including one year in Vietnam as a First Lieutenant. John worked for Owens Corning Fiberglass in many capacities in Toledo and Valparaiso, Indiana, during which time they started a new plant manufacturing fiberglass, underground, gasoline storage tanks for filling stations. He attended Valparaiso University Law School and entered the practice of law in 1975. Since 1975, he has been in private practice in Port Clinton, Ohio. John was an equal owner of Hartung Title Agency, Inc., a title insurance agency. He is also listed in Martindale-Hubbell with an “AV Preeminent” rating.  

During his career, John has been active in community service as Vice-President of the Port Clinton School Board, BGSU Firelands Board, President of the Port Clinton Kiwanis Club, Commodore of the Port Clinton Yacht Club, President of Colonial Club, and President of the Ottawa County Bar Association. John is also a member of the Ottawa County Bar Association, the Ohio State Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. He also served on the Ohio Supreme Court Board of Character and Fitness.