ALBANY – John Cox, known to many as Santa, passed away Monday October 30, 2017 at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital following an illness.  He was 66.  Born in Portland on November 25, 1950, he grew up in Albany and was a 1969 graduate of Albany High School.  He was a skilled draftsman by trade, working at Willman Lumber Company in Hartford City for twelve years.  He also worked for Guide Corporation and eventually retired from Magna in 2012.  John was a member of the Albany Police Reserves for several years and served as Captain.  He belonged to Anthony Lodge No. 171, F. & A.M., An Albany Christmas committee, and was a founding member of a muzzle loaders club that was formed near Deerfield.  He enjoyed golfing, fishing, canoeing, and building boats.  Perhaps one of his most enjoyable endeavors was playing the role of Santa Claus.

Survivors include his wife of thirty-seven years, Beth Ann Cox, and their son, Charles Jonas Cox; his brother: Randy Cox (wife: Marsha), Hartford City; several nieces & nephews, and his beloved dogs: Suzi and Zak.

He is preceded in death by his father: John J Neal Cox; his mother: Thelma I. "Jean" (Wise) Cox, and his sister: Vicky Lynn Cox.

Services will be 3 p.m. Sunday, November 5, 2017 at Meacham Funeral Service.  Cremation will follow.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday from 2 until 3 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to An Albany Christmas, 370 N. Manor Ave., Albany, IN 47320 or Little Red Door, 2311 W. Jackson St., Muncie, IN 47303.