John M. Umberger

John Milton Umberger, affectionately known as Jack or Pop Pop, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by his loving family in Fort Myers, Florida.

Born on May 5, 1939, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, John was the son of John and Ethel Umberger. He grew up in Penn Hills and graduated from Central Catholic High School. John started Umberger Construction after he graduated high school. For 46 years, he dedicated himself to building and remodeling homes with unmatched skill and integrity, leaving a legacy of beautifully crafted structures across the community.

In 2006, John retired and relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, where he embraced a vibrant retirement filled with golf, bowling, time with his wife, family, and friends, and the simple joys of life.

John was a fun-loving Pop Pop who wholeheartedly adored his three grandchildren, always ready with a smile, a story, or a helping hand. An avid golfer, he proudly achieved several hole-in-ones at Del Tura Country Club and other courses. In the winters, he was a dedicated bowler, recording two perfect 300 games—a testament to his precision and persistence. Known far and wide as the man who could “fix anything,” John’s extraordinary gift for craftsmanship extended beyond his professional life; he handcrafted furniture, doors, trim, molding, and fireplace mantles with a level of artistry and attention to detail that few could match. He demanded perfection in his work, ensuring every project reflected his high standards.

A devoted family man and community member, John coached his son’s sports teams and was deeply involved in the Plum Borough Baseball Association, generously donating his time, skills, and craftsmanship to support local youth.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Carol; his children, Lorraine (Scott), Scott (Pepsi), and Diane O’Shea; his grandchildren, Allison, Adam (Lexi), and Jack, who were the lights of his life; his sister, Karen Pater; and many extended family members and friends who cherished his warmth and generosity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ethel Umberger, and his brother, Richard Umberger.

A celebration of life will be held on May 9th at Del Tura Country Club in Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in John’s memory to The Dubin Center (12685 New Brittany Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33907), a nonprofit organization providing vital education, support groups, and resources to families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias—the disease that ultimately took John’s life. The Dubin Center has been a beacon of hope and compassion for caregivers in Southwest Florida since 1995.

John lived a full life built on hard work, family devotion, skillful hands, and quiet kindness. He will be remembered for the homes he built, the games he mastered, the family he cherished, and the enduring example he set of doing things the right way—with pride, precision, and love. May his memory bring comfort and inspire the same spirit in all who knew him.

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