John David Neitz, 65, of Apache, Oklahoma, passed away on May 10, 2026. Born on October 9, 1960, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, John lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and an unwavering optimism that inspired all who knew him. Following his graduation from high school in June 1979, John set out on a life of profound purpose and dedication.

John proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years, from November 1, 1983, until his retirement on November 30, 2003. Throughout his military career, he embodied the Army's core values of readiness, protection, and commitment. His overseas and domestic assignments spanned the globe, including service with the 2/187 at Fort Kobbe, Panama; the 1/8 at Fort Carson, Colorado; Recruiting Duty in his hometown area of Allentown, Pennsylvania; the 1/501 at Fort Richardson, Alaska; the 4/9 at Fort Wainwright, Alaska; the Defense Language Institute at the Presidio of Monterey, California; and the 1/506 in Korea (Giant & Greaves). He later shared his expertise during ROTC Duty at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania before concluding his decorated service with the 1/78FA at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Through his hard work and leadership, John rose steadily through the ranks, retiring as a Sargent First Class. Although he served in many capacities during his career, he found a particular joy in parachuting-jumping out of "perfectly good airplanes," as he liked to say with a grin.

His military service decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (3rd award), Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, and US Army Basic Recruiter Badge.

His dedication to service extended beyond his military career; after retiring from the Army, John continued to serve others through his work in maintenance and general repair until he fully retired-a chapter of life he embraced wholeheartedly.

Retirement did not slow John down. He was a man of many talents and passions who always had a project underway. Whether baking delicious treats, tending to his garden, or crafting beautiful pieces in his woodshop, John approached every endeavor with patience and care. He often said with a grin, "I bake (or grow) smiles." and sharing his creations brought him immense joy.

John's faith in God was the cornerstone of his life, grounding him through challenges and guiding his path. While on a church mission trip to Reynosa, Mexico, he was deeply moved by the profound faith of the local people. He returned home feeling both humbled and proud to have shared such a powerful experience with God and his fellow man.

His kind and caring spirit left an indelible mark on those around him. He had a unique ability to put others at ease and consistently put their needs before his own. This boundless love was further reflected in his family life; John opened his heart and home to become a foster parent to Tyler, Zoe, and Julia, then welcomed them into his forever family through adoption.

John is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Neitz of Apache, Oklahoma; his children: Dawn (Beth) Abraham of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania; Joseph Tyler Neitz of Dallas, Georgia; Zoe Neitz of Amarillo, Texas; Julia Neitz of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and his bonus children: Sarah (Trey) Martin and Leah Grimes of Lawton, Oklahoma. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, who were a source of endless pride for him. Additionally, John is survived by his sister Debby (Glen) Pryor of Allentown, Pennsylvania, and his brother Carby Neitz of Northampton, Pennsylvania.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Jean Hertzske, of Allentown, Pennsylvania.
John's life was rich with simple joys and steady love-a legacy that will continue to inspire everyone who knew him. His family and friends will forever cherish his memory, remembering a man whose kindness and faith touched so many lives. May his enduring spirit bring comfort to all who mourn him.