John K Finley
September 4, 1928 - January 27, 2005

John K. Finley, 76, of 114 W. Main Street, life-long resident of McConnelsville went to be with his Lord on January 27, 2005 at 9:46 p.m. at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 4, 1928 in McConnelsville, Ohio the son of Mona Lucille Kendle Finley and the late Delmar John Finley. He established the family business, Finley Fire Equipment, March 3, 1972 and continued as Chief Executive Officer along side his son John Walter Finley. He was very civic minded and served as Mayor and Councilman of McConnelsville for over 31 years. Three of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure were the establishment of the Hawk Missile Site, the McConnelsville Swimming Pool and updating McConnelsville’s water and sewer systems. He was the longest active member of the M&M Vol. Fire Dept., since joining March 8, 1951. He served as firefighter, driver, pump operator, training officer, Captain and long time Treasurer. He was a member of the West Virginia Fire Association, Ohio Fire Chief Association, Ohio Fireman’s Association, former member of the First Presbyterian Church of McConnelsville where he served as Sunday School Superintendent and treasurer, Charter member and Elder of the Church of the Gospel Ministry in McConnelsville. He was an avid pilot, obtained his aviator’s license in 1957 and was the proud owner of several airplanes.

He was a father, counselor, leader, friend, and mentor to thousands and will be deeply missed. His endeavors and his inspirations to others will always be remembered.

In 1962 John K Finley delivered his first Fire truck. It was Black and built by Peter Pirsh and Sons Company it was sold to Elkins West Virginia Fire Department. Accompanying him on the delivery was the whole family. His son John Walter and daughter Cindy rode with him in the truck and wife Yvonne (Runt) and daughter Debbie followed in the car. This would be their first trip as a family in the fire business. In the mid 90’s John Walter purchased the black truck back from Elkins Fire Department and had it completely restored in memory of his father. John K requested that he be taken to his final resting place on the Black truck. On Monday January 31, 2005 his son John Walter and daughter Cindy lead their father's funeral precession in the Black truck to the McConnelsville Cemetery.