John T. Regensburg

John T. Regensburg, 78, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. John was born May 1, 1948, in Middletown, Ohio, to Thomas and Saralene (Simpson) Regensburg.

A 1967 graduate of Middletown High School, he went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Science from Miami University. A true Renaissance man, John possessed a remarkable curiosity about the world around him and an extraordinary depth of knowledge. His specialty was biology—particularly insects. To John, it wasn’t simply a fly; it was a Drosophila melanogaster. His passion for science, music, art, nature, history, mechanics, and vintage sports cars made him a man of many talents and interests.

John taught biology at Middletown High School for 30 years. He was a beloved teacher whose former students remember him as smart, gentle, generous, humble, and kind. He had the ability to bring his unique enthusiasm into his science classes, making learning memorable and engaging for generations of students.

Music was an important part of John’s life. He was an excellent guitarist and musician. In the 1960-70s, John was a founding member of local bands: The Intruders, Trux Soul Blues Band, Petrocy’s People, Turnstyle and Calico. He taught guitar and served as a mentor to numerous local musicians, generously sharing his knowledge and encouraging others to pursue their own musical passions.

John is survived by the love of his life, wife, Joni (Imhoff) Regensburg; son, Josh (Amy) Regensburg; step-son, Joe (Pam) Petrocy; grandson, Braden Regensburg; step-grandson, Vlad Petrocy; brother-in-law, Don Imhoff; numerous cousins; and many beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Nathan Regensburg, and his parents, Saralene and Thomas Regensburg.

John leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, music, mentorship, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow musicians, former students, and the many people whose lives he touched.

The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, 120 S. Broad Street, Middletown, Ohio.

A memorial service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the church, with Pastor Kim Armentrout officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 120 S. Broad Street, Middletown, OH 45044, or Ohio Living Hospice, 9200 Worthington Road, Suite 300, Westerville, OH 43082.

Please sign the guestbook at SpauldingfuneralHome.com