JOHN “J.B.” BRETTELL

With his children by his side, John Gaither Brettell, 90, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, after a short stay in hospice care.

Born July 8, 1935, in Steubenville, Ohio, to Dr. Howard W. Brettell Sr., M.D. and Florence Gaither Brettell, John grew up with an unrelenting curiosity and a lifelong mastery of understanding how things worked. While attending The Ohio State University, he majored in mechanical engineering, earned his pilot’s license, and became a proud Buckeye for life.

In the early ’60s, with grit, determination, and an unparalleled work ethic, John built JB Auto Wrecking from the ground up. He wasn’t afraid of hard work–he lived it. Long days in the yard, grease on his hands, and a sharp eye for opportunity defined who he was. John was tough, driven, and unshakably dedicated–values that shaped not only his work but also the lives of his children and grandchildren, influencing who they became and who they are today.

John spent his life combining mechanical skill with generosity. Known for his ability to fix anything and his willingness to help anyone, he was the first call when something broke–or when someone needed a new set of wheels.

He is survived by his children, Lori (Michael) Balakos of Louisville, KY; Amy (Jason) Brettell Tate of Baltimore, OH; and John Brettell Jr. of Etna, OH; and by his grandchildren, Alena Balakos (Tyler), Ashleigh Brettell Hollett (Gavin), Anthony John Brettell, and Elizabeth Gaither Tate. He is also survived by his sisters, Jo Ann Brettell Dunham of Columbus, OH, and Susan Haddad of Wheeling, WV, as well as many nieces and nephews who hold fond memories of their Uncle John, remembered for his clever mind and colorful character that was uniquely his own.

John’s final act of generosity was the donation and acceptance of his body to The Ohio State University College of Medicine through the Body Donation Program, a vital resource for medical education and research. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support the program at https://medicine.osu.edu/giving. The family will announce a memorial service at a later date.

The family takes comfort in knowing John has taken to the skies once more–this time on a flight that never ends.