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John Franklin
Maher
Sep 10, 1942 — May 4, 2025
John Franklin Maher affectionately known as "Johnny" or "Papaw," of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma passed away peacefully May 4, 2025 at the age of 82.
Born September 10, 1942, in Warner, Oklahoma, Johnny's life was defined by a loving devotion to family and friends, an admirable devotion to hard work, and an unforgettable sense of humor and infectious smile that brightened everyone's day.
Johnny was one of five boys born to parents Andrew Maher and Myrtle Defoor, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by his brothers, James D. (JD) Maher, Charles F. Maher (wife Irene), and George A. Maher (wife Linda).
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Ruby Maher; sister-in-law, Sue Maher; sons, David Lindner (wife Carolin), Teddy Leyba (wife Nancy), and Terry Leyba; six grandchildren, Viktoria Lindner, Joshua Leyba (wife Alexa), Kelsey Leyba, Zachary Leyba, Nicholas Leyba, Ethan Leyba, and Sophia Leyba; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Johnny proudly served and defended his country as a member of the United States Air Force as part of the SOG unit and in the United States Army as a detective with the Military Police. During his service he was awarded the Air Force's Outstanding Unit- Studies and Observation Group, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, 2 Overseas Bars, 2 Good Conduct Medals, the Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart.
Following military service, Johnny married Elisabeth Lindner, living and traveling throughout Germany with the family Bumper Car business. Johnny returned to the States in 1984, going to work with his brother, George, at his plumbing business until he opened C & D Faucet Parts.
In 1990 he married Ruby Leyba and together they continued to build their plumbing supply business, developing countless loyal customers and lifelong friendships over the 40 years in operation.
The memories made spending time together, whether it be building onto the lake properties, fishing, listening to the brothers arguing with one another over the right way to do something as all us kids sit back and laugh, or just kicking back with a cold beer listening to our Aunt Ruby say "if you can't get up to get your own beer you've had too many" will hold dear to our hearts.
Viewing at Mercer-Adams will be Friday, 9am-8pm with family present from 4-7pm. Graveside services will be held at 12:30pm on Monday, May 12 in Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, OK.
Friday
Mercer-Adams Funeral Service
4:00 - 7:00 pm
Viewing is 9am-8pm with family present from 5-7pm.
Monday
Ft. Gibson National Cemetery
Starts at 12:30 pm
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