John C. Sherman, 82, of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013.

He was born Sept. 3, 1930, in Llewellyn, Pa., to John H. and Rebecca Sherman.

John married Ruth L. Sherman in 1952, and lived in Lake Hopatcong, N.J. He was Vice President of operations for Shop Rite from 1961 until 1996, when he retired and moved from Lake Hopatcong to Punta Gorda. John joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1947, and was honored to serve his country for four years and two months during the Korean War, where he received the Purple Heart. He is a lifetime member and former Commander of the American Legion, William H. Flatt, Post 245 in Lake Hopatcong. With his love for boys and sports, he volunteered as the Recreational Director Commissioner at Jefferson Township. He continued to support and attend the local high school games, until moving to Florida. John was very passionate with his volunteer work with the Marine Corps, Toys for Tots. He was an avid golfer and fisherman, and was a member of the Riverwood Golf and Country Club.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth L. Sherman; their sons, John S. (Leslia) Sherman, of Jacksonville, Fla., Gary E. (Lynn) Sherman of Lake Hopatcong, and William J. (Nicole) Sherman of Jacksonville; and his brother, Robert P.; he was loved and admired by grandchildren, Gary M., John E., Stephanie A., Dayna M., Derek M., Caitlan J., and Kendall T.

Viewing will be from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. and service from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., burial will follow at 2:30 p.m., at Sarasota National Cemetery with Military Honors. Funeral Services and visitation will be held at Gulf Coast United Methodist Church at 1100 S. McCall Road, Route 776, Port Charlotte, Fla. Please visit the online tribute for John C. Sherman at www.kays-ponger.com. In the spirit of John Sherman, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, memorial donations to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots, and/or TideWell Hospice would be greatly accepted.

Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Port Charlotte Chapel.