John Joseph Hvisdos Jr., also known as "Big John", left the world a bit less bright and a lot less funny on October 8, 2025.
Born on September 24, 1940, in Cleveland, OH, John spent his 85 years crafting a life that was as warm and inviting as a summer's day. John passed away in Sarasota, FL, shortly after his 85th birthday and being diagnosed with glioblastoma, but not before leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone he met.
A loving husband to his late wife, Marilyn Hvisdos, he is preceded in death by his parents, Rose and John Sr, brother Jim, and sister Barbara. He was a loving father to his survived children along with their spouses; Kelly (Bill) Baddour, Ann Marie (Russ) Wagner, Michael (Julie) Hvisdos, John Hvisdos, and Fred Borrowdale; along with his cherished grandchildren, their spouses, and great-grandchildren; Stacey Marquez, Mason and Madelyn, Stepfanie (Chris) Divis, Kenna and Scotlyn, Elisa (Evan) Stanger and Jude, Mike (Sarah) Wagner-Topping, Charles Baddour, Aubrey Featherston and Addison Schneider.
John's life was one of service and generosity. A proud US Navy veteran, he later applied his talents as an expert in HVAC at NASA and other small businesses that he provided services for.
John enjoyed golf and fishing in Lake Erie but mostly spending time with family and friends. Described by those who knew him as loving, funny, and selfless, John had a heart as big as his personality, and he never missed a chance to help others or make them laugh. He will be missed by many but forgotten by none, as his jokes, his kindness, and his love live on in the stories he leaves behind. The world was indeed lucky to have John J Hvisdos Jr., and while the curtain has closed on his time here, memories of the good man he was play on in the lives he touched.
The burial of John (and wife Marilyn) will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, 1:30pm at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 SR-72, Sarasota, FL 34241. There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service on Saturday, January 10, 2026, 11:00am at Crosspointe Christian Church, 3530 Whitfield Ave, Sarasota, FL followed by refreshments and gathering at 12:30pm at The Winds of St. Armands north clubhouse, 4000 N Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL. 34234.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, Florida, is in charge of arrangements.
