John N. "Butch" Hollar

John Norman Hollar, "Butch", passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 86 on the morning of October 9, 2026. John was born March 26, 1940, at the family homestead in Newark, Ohio to to John Henry Hollar and Maxine (Clayton) Hollar. He grew up on the farm, graduating from Newark High School in 1961. After graduation, John served in the Ohio National Guard and then the U.S. Navy.

In January of 1971, he met the love of his life, Phyllis (Hart) Hollar at Fred Astair's Dance Studio; they were married on February 6th, 1971 sharing 55 wonderful years together. John and Phyllis moved to their farm outside of Thornville, Ohio in 1983. He worked at Owens Corning Tech Center by day and the Heath Auto Theatre at night. Later he worked for the Boeing Air Force Base from which he retired as a lab technician.

When he was at home, he worked hard on the farm and when he wasn't building something or on his Case tractor he was in the garage with his brothers working on anything that had a motor. He had a love for Chevy trucks, fast Camaros, and Novas. John had a deep love for all animals - dogs and cats as well as horses. He had a sweet tooth for ice cream, cake and apple pie. John was also an avid bowler on Friday nights alongside his wife.

He was a talented welder, mechanic, painter, and glass installer. He was strong and opinionated, but could also be tender. He was cared for up until his passing by his loving wife, Phyllis never giving in to whatever good or bad each day brought their way.

John is survived by his wife, Phyllis Ellen (Hart) Hollar; daughter, Anita Ellen (James) Davis; sister, Mary Banks, of Powellton, WV; granddaughters, Madelynn (Hizey), of Laurelville, Emmy Gennari, of Lithopolis, and Carisa (Davis) Ferguson, of Chillicothe; grandson, Denver Hizey, of Lancaster; great grandchildren, Clayton Crosby, Payton Crosby, and Adrienne Crosby; special nephews, Jeremiah, Thomas, James, and William Jr.; nieces, Laura, Beth, and Mindy. In addition to his parents, John and Maxine, he is preceded in death by his siblings, Anthony Lee "Tony" Hollar, William Hollar Sr., Timothy Hollar, Michael Hollar, and his younger sister, Ruth Ann Coventry; as well as step-sons, Rick Eugene Davis and Kelly Merle Davis.

Our family would like to thank any and all caregivers in his last days from hospice, including his nurse Anita James and his aide, Stephanie Hale.

A private service and interment with military honors has been conducted by Theller Funeral Home, Lancaster, Ohio.