John Groener

June 29, 1955 - March 27, 2024

John Groener, 68, died from mesothelioma on March 27, 2024. He died at home surrounded by his loving family. John was a journeyman structural ironworker for 25 years, and a proud member of Ironworkers Local 29. John helped build many of the buildings in downtown Portland and surrounding areas. John was an amazing husband and father, always placing his family at the top of his priority list. John enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping, spending time with good friends, and working around his family's property. Thanks to all of his projects, his spirit is everywhere -- through his landscaping, projects in the barn and shop, skilled ornamental metal work, and all of the trees he planted. John grew up in Milwaukie, OR, and attended Rex Putnam High School. He and his first wife Karen settled in Oregon City, and later moved to Beavercreek. They welcomed their son, Chris, in 1988. John loved being a father, and taught Chris everything he knew. He was proud that Chris surpassed his expertise in many ways, including equipment operating and engine repair. John married his wife, Jackie, in 2006. The couple worked together to maintain a loving home in Beavercreek for their horses, goats, chickens, dogs, and cats. Following a motorcycle accident in 2014, John showed his true grit by recovering to a level that none of his doctors expected. John was a friend to everyone he met, never forgetting their names or stories. John was passionate about trees. He planted hundreds of fir trees on his and Jackie's property. He continually cared for them as they grew, including regularly spreading composted horse manure to aid in their growth. There will be a celebration of life for John on June 29, 2024, at the home he and Jackie shared for 18 years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to One Tree Planted, at www.onetreeplanted.org, which allows you to plant trees in Oregon or elsewhere. John is survived by his wife Jackie Damm, his son Chris Groener, his daughter-in-law Kate Groener, his brother Bill Groener, and many close friends and other loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Chloris Groener, and his brother Jim Groener.