John Edward Rimko

John Edward Rimko, 82, of Hermitage, passed away peacefully with his wife and children at his side early Thursday morning, January 29, 2026, in his home.

Mr. Rimko was born July 16, 1943, in Sharon, a son of John and Helen (Pollack) Rimko. He attended Sacred Heart Parochial Grade School and later graduated from Sharon High School in 1961. John continued his education at Youngstown University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1966.

His beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Karen (Bonaquist) Rimko, whom he married February 5, 1966, survives at home in Hermitage.

While still in college, John managed the Men’s Department at Treasure Island Department Store, Hermitage. For the next 38 years, he worked at General Motors Co., Lordstown, OH, retiring as a vehicle loader in 2005.

John was a member of St. Joseph Church, Sharon.

John had a lifelong passion for motorsports and always looked forward to truck pulls, snowmobile races, and watching drag races on television.

He was very mechanically inclined and spent much of his free time hanging out with friends at Husnick’s Auto on State Street. John truly enjoyed working on cars, trucks, and small engines.

His greatest joy in life was becoming a “Papa” to his three grandchildren and great-grandson. John cherished the time he was able to spend with them and while babysitting their “fur family.”

In addition to his wife, John is survived by a son, Rod Rimko, Sharpsville; a daughter, Debra Vaughn (Jason), Brookfield, OH; two sisters, Norma Mistretta, Sharpsville, and Patti Arribi, Palisades Park, NJ; a sister-in-law, Mary Rimko, Hilton Head, SC; three grandchildren, Garret Rimko (Teauna), Molly Rimko, and Taylor Marie Vaughn; and one great-grandson, Grant Rimko.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Rimko.

Per his wishes, there will be no viewing. A private service will be held by his family at a later date.