John Runkle

John Runkle, 89, of Berne, Indiana passed away at his residence Monday, January 26, 2026.

He was born January 7, 1937 in Union City, Indiana to the late Virgil and Ruby (Dotson) Runkle.

John graduated from West Side High School in Union City, Indiana in 1956 and proudly served his country in the United States Army during peacetime and was honorably discharged.

He was a member of American Legion Post #158 and the Elks Lodge #1534, both in Union City, Indiana.

He was employed by Textron as a Design Engineer, where he worked for 25 years until his retirement. He also taught silversmithing at various arts and crafts schools throughout the United States.

John traveled extensively throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Europe. He was also a man of many talents. He could knit and generate crafts in various designs. John also was fond for his flower gardens and spent his winters growing geraniums and other flowers at his house.

John is survived by his nephew, Alan Mikesell of Greenville, Ohio; nephew, Rodney (Stephanie) Mikesell of Grenville, Ohio; as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Dorene Mikesell.

In following with John’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services.

Preferred memorials can be made to American Legion Post #468 in Berne, Indiana which can be made through Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home.

Arrangements by Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes, Yager-Kirchhofer Chapel of Berne, Indiana