The Enduring Quiet of John H. Blood: A Life Woven with Family, Service, and the Great Outdoors

There are lives that blaze brightly, and then there are lives, like John H. Blood’s, that burn with a steady, enduring flame — a testament to quiet strength, deep dedication, and an unwavering love for family. John, who passed away on May 12, 2024, at the age of 88, left this world much as he lived in it: surrounded by the peace he cultivated throughout his long and meaningful journey.

Born on August 27, 1935, in Reading, John was a son of the late Harry L. and Esther S. (Hartman) Blood. You could say his roots ran deep in Berks County, a place he called home for nearly nine decades. He wasn't one for grand pronouncements, in truth, but his actions spoke volumes. And those actions, well, they painted a picture of a man utterly devoted to the people and principles he held dear.

His earliest chapter saw him graduate from Reading High School in 1953, a foundation that would lead him to serve his country with honor. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, John bravely answered the call during the Korean War era, a period of global tension that shaped a generation. He carried that sense of duty with him, surely, into every facet of his civilian life.

For forty remarkable years, John dedicated his professional life to Met-Ed. Starting as a lineman, he quite literally helped keep the lights on for countless homes and businesses. His commitment didn't stop there; he steadily rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the Supervisor of Distribution Operations — a role that demanded not just skill, but immense reliability and leadership. His retirement, after such a long tenure, must have felt like turning a page on a profound career chapter.

But beyond the demands of service and profession, John found his truest joys in the embrace of family. For 65 wonderful years, he shared a remarkable bond with his beloved wife, Patricia L. (Gould) Blood. Sixty-five years! Think of the stories, the shared laughter, the quiet comforts of such a long partnership. Together, they built a life, a home, and a legacy that continues through their children, John H. Blood, Jr. (with his wife Nancy) and Lisa Scheidt (with her husband Scott). And then, of course, the grandchildren — Kristen Good (and her husband Adam), Joshua Blood (and his wife Maddy), Courtney Scheidt, and Connor Scheidt — who brought so much light. And, honestly, what could be more precious than meeting a great-granddaughter, Avery Good, a new generation blooming from his own?

John also cherished the simpler, yet profound, pleasures of life. An avid outdoorsman, he found solace and excitement in fishing and hunting. You could often find him tending to his garden, a hands-on pursuit that speaks volumes about patience and nurturing. And sports? Oh yes, he was a loyal fan, cheering on his beloved Eagles, Phillies, and Penn State Nittany Lions. He wasn't just a spectator, though; he was an active member of the community, belonging to the Hyde Park Sportsmen's Club, Temple Fire Company Social Club, and the Laureldale Fire Company Social Club — places where camaraderie and shared interests flourished.

While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life lived with unwavering integrity and genuine affection. He was predeceased by his sister Janice Sweigart, but he is survived by his devoted sister, Jean Angstadt, and her husband John, who will undoubtedly hold dear countless memories. Though private services and burial are planned, John H. Blood’s quiet, powerful presence will surely be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, a true testament to a life well and truly lived.