John Kinslow Obituary

John Robert Kinslow Sr., 75, was called home by his Lord and Savior on September 18, 2025. Born at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland on November 22, 1949, John built his life in Wisconsin, calling the Milwaukee, Franklin and Waukesha areas home before settling in Franksville in his later years.

For 57 beautiful years, John shared an extraordinary marriage with his beloved wife, Diane Marie Kinslow (Gyuro). Together, they raised their cherished children: daughter Dawn Marie Kaliszewski (Craig), and son John Robert Kinslow Jr. John's heart overflowed with pride for his grandchildren, TJ Kaliszewski (Elizabeth) and Catie Bigbie (Wesley). He is also lovingly remembered by his extended family: Helen Gyuro, Steve Gyuro (Judy), Jane Mathews (Tony) and Annie McDermot (Gyuro). John is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom he loved very much.

John is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Catherine Kinslow (LaBarbera) and Johnny Larue Kinslow, his sister Sarah Cooley (Kinslow) and cherished in-laws James and Anna Gyuro, Jimmy Gyuro and Paul Gyuro.

John lived with an open heart and outstretched hand. His 34-year career at Wisconsin Energies was marked not just by professional dedication and extraordinary leadership, but by the countless friendships he cultivated. Whether bonding with fellow car enthusiasts, brightening days at Piggly Wiggly, or simply meeting someone new, John possessed the remarkable gift of turning strangers into lifelong friends.

Faith formed the cornerstone of John's character. His unwavering moral compass, infectious optimism, and servant's heart drew people to him like a beacon. Even in life's most challenging moments, John sought God's blessings and found reasons for gratitude. His genuine curiosity about the world around him kept him young at heart, always eager to learn something new or share a moment of gentle teasing with his devoted Diane.

John was devoted to his daughter Dawn, always there to mentor, support and guide her through life's journey - from teaching her to rebuild her first carburetor to taking her shopping for her prom dress, he was her steadfast source of wisdom, encouragement and love.

The workshop became sacred ground where John mentored his beloved son John Jr., passing down not just mechanical expertise but the deeper lessons of character and manhood through their shared passion for drag racing and building hot rods - each project a vessel for wisdom that transcended the tools in their hands. They were father and son, but more than that - they were truly best friends.

His morning coffee rituals with Diane were treasured sanctuaries of intimacy in their enduring love story. Despite the 400 miles separating him from his grandchildren, John intentionally wove himself into their lives, creating bonds that distance could never diminish.

John's legacy transcends his earthly departure. In every act of kindness he inspired, every friendship he nurtured, and every life he touched, his spirit continues. Those blessed to call him husband, father, grandfather, and friend carry forward his light-a testament to a life lived in faithful service to God and others.

Celebration of Life - All welcomed - Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Hartson Funeral Home

Visitation: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Service: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Join us as we celebrate John's remarkable journey with his favorite hymns and cherished memories. Together, we honor this faithful servant who answered God's call to love well and serve others. "Well done, good and faithful servant."

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to:

Union Grove Baptist Chuch

417 15th Ave

Union Grove, WI 53182

https://myugbc.com/

or

VCY America, Inc

3434 W Kilbourn Ave

Milwaukee, WI 53208

https://www.vcy.org/