John Philip Bohrer

Local artist and avid golfer John Philip Bohrer, 78, of Chester, VA, packed his oils and paint brushes and headed for that large canvas in the heavens on Tuesday, March 30th after a long hard fought battle against lung cancer. John was born on November 10, 1942 in Washington, D.C. to the late Philip Ray Bohrer and Elinor Mae (Stevens) (Bohrer) Van Pelt.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Frances Marie Daniels, at home in Chester. Other survivors include two brothers, Jerry W. Bohrer (Cynthia) and Marc Van Pelt (Renee), both of Maryland. In addition, he had two stepchildren, Danny W. Daniels, Jr. (Tracey) and Paula J. Davis (Michael), both of Martinsburg, WV. John also had numerous step grandchildren and step great grandchildren in addition to an estranged daughter. Also mourning his loss are his feline fur babies Dan-Mar, Dolly, Ellie, and JoJo. Greeting him on the other side of the rainbow bridge were his fur pals Jack and Joby.
John excelled at all things sports and while in high school was scouted by two major league baseball teams. Unfortunately, he injured his pitching arm during his tryout and didn't get to go to the major leagues. After high school he worked for the National Archives and while there he was responsible for checking Jackie Kennedy's pink suit into their collection following the JFK assassination. He later ran the film for the Warren Commission. Following a stint in Vietnam, John returned to the Washington, D.C. area where he worked for the CIA. Retiring early from the federal government, John spent the remainder of his years working in the car business until his retirement in 2007.
John's wishes were to be cremated and to have a celebration luncheon in his honor for family and friends. Date and time for the celebration will be announced later once CoVID restrictions have eased.
Memorial contributions can be sent to Smitty's Cat Rescue, POB 3443, Chester, VA, 23831.