John Marvin Finke, 71, Columbus (formerly of Hope)

John Marvin Finke, 71, of Columbus, passed from this life at 7:49 a.m. Sunday, November 23, 2025 at home.

Born on February 9, 1954 to Marvin and Helen Gommel Finke; Larger than life in every way, John was a vibrant, good-humored soul who brought joy, laughter, and encouragement to everyone he met. He was known for never taking life too seriously, always finding a way to lift others up, and sharing his trademark wit and stories.

John was a 1972 graduate of Hauser Jr./Sr. High School, and he deeply valued the friendships he built there. He proudly attended the Hauser Class of 1972 monthly lunches, where he was a familiar and beloved presence.

John spent his life working on the family farm, where he poured his heart into breeding and raising Holstein cattle before later transitioning into Black Angus cattle. His dedication to agriculture shaped not only his life, but the lives of countless young showmen he inspired along the way. John was a respected judge at dairy shows throughout the region, where he cherished teaching young exhibitors and sharing his deep knowledge of dairy cattle.

Traveling was one of John’s great passions, and he loved telling stories from his adventures. He had a special place in his heart for children and took great pride in guiding the next generation. He served as a Lunch Buddy at St. Peter’s Lutheran School, where he became a lunchroom legend. Students eagerly awaited their turn to sit with him, knowing they were in for laughter, conversation, and a story or two.

John loved welcoming others to the farm. He hosted preschool and elementary students for farm visits, as well as fellow Angus farmers, always sharing his passion for agriculture, livestock, and community.

An auctioneer at heart, John used his talents to help families during transitions and times of loss, offering comfort and compassion through his work. He held a well-known appreciation for Flow Blue china, collecting, studying, and appraising pieces over the years.

John’s faith guided him throughout his life, and he was a devoted member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. He was a 1975 alumni of Purdue and an avid fan of Purdue basketball. One of his favorite memories was traveling to Phoenix to cheer Purdue on in the Final Four and National Championship.

John was generous, humorous, outspoken, and deeply caring—never afraid to share his opinion, but always ready to share a laugh as well. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the young people he encouraged, and the community he loved so deeply.

He survived by his sisters, Susan Finke Scott of Columbus, Cyndy Shupe of Cadillac Michigan; stepsiblings, Terry (Ruth) Schlehuser, and Deena (Jon) Stoner, both of Columbus; nieces and nephews, Betsy (Michael) Place, Nick Stoner, Katie Stoner, and Luke Place all of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Helen, stepmother, Pauline, brother-in-law Steve Doughten, and nephew, Alan Schlehuser.

The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street with the Rev. Tim Carter officiating.

Family and friends may gather for a time of visitation from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday and 9 a.m. to time of service at the funeral home.

John will be laid to rest next to his parents at the Garland Brook Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or Hope FFA.

Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family at barkesweaverglick.com.