John W. Reiber

John W. Reiber of Indianapolis was born June 30, 1942, in Lebanon, IN and passed away May 11, 2023, just a month shy of his 81^st birthday. John never met a stranger and was a friend to all. Always willing to lend a hand and free advice, as he said, he was skilled in many trades but master of none. His amateur professions include being an Accountant, Carpenter, Plumber, Auto Mechanic, Window installer, HVAC specialist, roofer, pool service technician, Sudoku Master, Solitaire Wizard, and the list is endless.

In childhood, John truly loved Hopalong Cassidy and anything cowboys and Indians. I imagine he and Bob Vaught were a sight to see as they ran the streets of Lizton defeating the bad guys. As a boy his mom kept him busy and out of trouble with activities at the Lizton Christian Church and 4-H. His mom kept him happy with a constant supply of pie from the local cafe operated by Colean. His childhood love of airplanes never ended. He had an unfortunate discussion with a teacher who talked him out of the Air Force and becoming a pilot, but he was still able to enjoy his love through his many years of employment at TWA. Lifelong friends were formed here, as were many stories that could, but probably should not, be shared – but it should be noted that John was not often the instigator but rather a supporter of his cronies.

John was also an avid lover of the arts throughout his life. He was an incredible writer, and his stories are enjoyed by family and friends. We only wished he would have written more. John loved being a thespian at Lizton High School. He looked forward to the annual class play. Some believe had he ever gone to Hollywood that he would have been on the big screen alongside Humphrey Bogart and John Wayne. His dream might have been to star in some of his favorite shows which include Death Valley Days, Wagon Train, Gunsmoke and Bonanza.

During his time as a Lizton Blue Blazer, John enjoyed being a member of the basketball and baseball teams. He spent summers bailing hay, fishing, and spending time at the lake. As he grew into adulthood, his love of sports and outdoors continued. He took his family to the lake, he was an avid Nascar and Indy car fan, as well as a lover of the Indianapolis Colts, and IU and Purdue basketball. And when March rolled around, watch out, as he was sure to run you over in the quest for the March Madness family trophy.

Being outside, whether in the yard or garage, was his favorite past time. He took great pleasure in managing the lawn with his precise lines and edging. Picking up sticks, raking leaves, and maintaining his home was as normal as breathing. And as far as cabana boys go, John was the best. He spent hours perfecting the crystal-clear water that was enjoyed by his children and grandkids. He felt the enormous amount of money and effort that was invested in the pool for the very occasional use was well worth it through the smiles on the kids’ and families’ faces. The annual pool opening coincided with his favorite summer sport – the Indy 500. After spending hours working in the garage, Patsy would peer out the back to see the garage door open, where John and Puss-cat would be taking a break outside smoking his hand rolled cigarette and enjoying a beer.

Not sure that we should discuss his DIY projects. John spent hours planning his DIY projects, creating designs on the computer. There are still several in-process available for completion today if there are any takers in the room.

At the time of his death, John leaves behind his wife of 27 years, Patsy, and his children Kirk and Kathy Reiber. He was fortunate to be grandpa to Amanda (Marc) Stephens and Megan (Ryan) Meyer, children of Kathy, as well as Brandon and Jason (Ashley) Reiber, Kirk’s children. There were also nine lucky kids that could claim him as their great-grandpa, and he dearly loved them all. John was preceded in death by his father Raymond “Bud” Reiber, mother Colean Reiber, and sister Joan Brunes.