Obituary of John Eugene Omps

John Eugene Omps

September 28, 1933 – September 27, 2024

John Eugene Omps, an accomplished Air Force veteran and respected business executive, passed away on September 27, 2024, in Eagan, Minnesota, just a day before his 91st birthday.

Born in Winchester, Virginia, on September 28, 1933, to James Floyd Omps and Bertha Ann Omps (née Behunin), John’s life was characterized by a strong dedication to both his military and professional careers. He graduated from Randolph-Macon Military Academy in 1951 and went on to attend Davis and Elkins College, where he met Madge Nazelrod. The two were married after a brief courtship, building a life that spanned five children that included four daughters and a son.

John earned a commission as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force through the ROTC program and completed his pilot training at Spence Air Base in Georgia. After his active-duty service, he transitioned to the Air Force Reserves, earning the rank of Captain while balancing his military commitment with a focus on education. He received a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Pittsburgh, setting the stage for a successful career in executive leadership.

Over the course of his career, John held prominent roles with companies throughout the United States, leading him and his family to live in 19 different states. His final professional role was with John Swire & Sons, from which he retired. After his retirement, John and Madge moved to Arizona before relocating to Minnesota in 2010 following Madge’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

John is survived by his four daughters, Libby (Dennis Strong), Kathy (Mark Reps), Barb (Tom Greer), and Lisa (James Woodley), as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of many decades, Madge, as well as his son John and grandson Skylar.

John will be remembered for his military service, his contributions in the corporate world, and the life he built with Madge