John Adler, an esteemed veteran and beloved family man, passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on April 11, 1946, in Evansville, Indiana, where he mostly grew up prior to his family relocating to Paducah. He experienced a solid model of fatherhood when his mother married Jim Gladish a few years after John's dad had died at an early age. Jim's love and guidance blessed John's life as he grew up and also into adulthood. John's early enlistment in the Navy Reserves in 1963 marked the beginning of a dedicated military career which included honorable service in both Vietnam and the Mediterranean. He was also a Navy Shellback.
Known for his sharp, analytical mind, as well as his humor, John was a talented perfectionist who could build anything he set his mind to. After retiring as an Instrumentation and Electrical Specialist, he continued to live an active life. John’s interests showcased his diverse skills whether it was teaching his grandson Benjamin to play the guitar, cherishing moments with his granddaughter Marissa, engaging in target practice, or tending to his lawn and garden. He enjoyed Ford trucks, playing baseball in the backyard, and helping his daughter with projects. In his youth, he played lead guitar in a local band called "The Blazers." He and his band wrote and recorded music which sold some singles in the U.S. and Europe. As an adult, he gathered strength from the knowledge that the name Adler means 'eagle.'
As an intelligent, handy, and analytical man, John’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His bright light and profound impact will be deeply missed. He regularly listened to services or attended church at Lone Oak First Baptist Church.
John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sharon Adler, whom he married on July 24, 1964; one daughter, Shannon Adler (Allan) of Paducah; one brother, Bruce (Linda) Gladish of California; two grandchildren, Marissa Brock and Benjamin Brock of Paducah; two nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin John Adler and Kathryn Adler Gladish.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 12 P.M. at the Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Paducah with Bro. Bob Martin officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 11 A.M. at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of gifts to the Vietnam Memorial, 1172 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Perryville, Missouri 63775.
You may leave a message of sympathy and light a candle of remembrance at www.milnerandorr.com.
