John Kerz Iii

John (Jackson) Kerz III of Cresco, PA passed away peacefully at home on January 25, 2025 at 92 years old. He will be remembered, among other things, for his green thumb, quick wit and appreciation for Pocono wildlife.

John was preceded in death by his father John Kerz II, mother Katherine Price and brothers William Kerz and Richard (Dickie) Kerz. He is survived by his sister Gail Frey of Lake Ariel, PA.

John met his wife Muriel Evans at church during candlelight service. He recalls the moment he first saw Muriel as he passed the candle to her, saying she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen. They both attended Barrett High School, where he played basketball and she was a cheerleader. John and Muriel were married for nearly 70 years until her passing in 2021.

Together, John and Muriel had five daughters: Ellen Kerz of Stateline, NV; Lorraine Kerz (husband Ken Wheatley) of Fairview, NC; Laura Kerz of Atlanta, GA; Elaine Bubb (husband Richard Bubb) of Canadensis, PA; and Kim Kerz of Conneaut Lake, PA. Their family grew to include nine grandchildren: Phoebe Gellman, Silas Bennett (deceased), Eve Bennett, Jesse Halloran (husband Kyle Halloran), Anthony Spatucci, Mackenzie Fuller, Alexis Fuller, Nicholas Bubb (wife Katie Bubb) and Evelyn Bubb; three great grandchildren: Scarlett Spatucci, Nathan Bubb and James Halloran and his loyal dog, Jack.

John served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952-1955, assigned to the 374th Motor Vehicle Squadron during the Korean War. He was the oldest member of the American Legion Evans-Blitz Post 922, where he signed the book daily. He was fortunate to spend his final years in the loving care of his daughter, Kim, who even in his 90’s got him out of the house for his daily beer and coveted time with friends.

John was a heavy equipment operator who worked for several local contractors over the years and eventually ran his own excavating business until his retirement. He was an avid gardener and outdoorsman. He hunted for many years at the Scrub Oak Hunting Club and raised prized hounds that were sought after by hunters across the country. He grew a large garden every year, canning vegetables by the pound and sharing his harvest with all. He was also an avid golfer and made a hole-in-one at Buck Hill Golf Club’s Number 5 on the Blue Course in 2002.

No services or visitation will be held. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. The family asks that any donations in John’s memory be made to the American Legion Post 922: 3407 Spruce Cabin Rd, Cresco, PA 18326.

Please sign John’s online guestbook at www.hatheway-tedesco.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 130 N. 2nd St., Conneaut Lake, PA 16316.