HARTZELL “JOHN” LANCASTER

John was born on January 4, 1960, in Weirton, one of four children and the only son of the late Hartzell O. and Julia Bell (Mallas) Lancaster.

He was a 1978 graduate of Weir High School and immediately began what would become a remarkable 47-year career in the tire industry. John first worked with Weirton Bandag before opening his own business in 2006, JAAAG Tire. The name held special meaning, formed from the first initials of John, his wife, and their three daughters — a reflection of how deeply family was woven into every part of his life.

On June 28, 1986, John married the love of his life, Gloria Mraovich Lancaster. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and devotion, and John proudly embraced his role as the ultimate “girl dad.” Though he could appear tough to those who didn’t know him well, those closest to him knew John as a gentle teddy bear with a big heart. He was hardworking, honest, trustworthy, and deeply caring–a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud “Papa” to his grandchildren. Family was everything to John, and he would do anything for those he loved.

John was a member of the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce and was always donating to the community. He sponsored many area sports teams and always helped others in need. He was also a passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan and proudly told anyone who would listen that he bled black and gold.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Gloria Lancaster; his daughters, Ashleigh (Aaron) Gurskey, Amber (Jacob) Fischer, and Angel (Robert Jones) Lancaster; his grandchildren, Jordin and Jaxson Gurskey and Parker Belle Jones; and his sisters, Julia “Diane” Beynon, Cheryl Ivill, and Carmella Mae Lancaster.

Friends and relatives will be received on Wednesday from 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton.

A funeral service will be held at 7 PM in the funeral home with Reverend Larry Barkley presiding.

Gloria, Ashleigh, Amber and Angel would like to thank all of John’s loyal customers who supported our family’s business through the years.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to Kelsey’s Christmas. Please make check payable to B.H.F.R.N in care of Andrews 15 Oak Ct Morgantown, WV 26505.

Please share tributes and memories with John’s family at www.grecohertnick. com