Author Archives: robbucher

-Beavercreek Community Theatre

BCT is devastated by the unexpected loss of a treasured family member. We are shocked and saddened by the passing of John Falkenbach this morning. If you were involved in Dayton community theatre, or OCTA, you knew and loved John. John’s contributions to Dayton theatre were enormous and BCT will not be the same without him. We will share any information about arrangements as they become available. Rest well John, to say you will be missed is an understatement.

– Obituary from Littleton & Rue

John Anthony “Tigger” Falkenbach, 65, of Dayton, passed away on Thursday, November 23, 2023. He was born on July 23, 1958, in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of John C. Falkenbach and Mary Ann (Torlina) Hudson.

John’s journey through life was marked by a profound love for the arts, and his passion for theatre was unmistakable. He graduated from Catholic Central High School in the class of 1976 and was an alumnus of Ohio Northern University. He worked as a financial consultant/ accountant for over 40 years, most recently working for Robert Haff International and was assigned to various companies throughout the Miami Valley Region during his 16 years of service.

However, it was the stage that truly captured Johnnie’s heart. He was involved in community, educational, and professional theatre for almost 50 years. He was active onstage and behind the scenes where he was a director, lighting designer, producer, actor, and techie. He was a cherished member of the following theater communities: Beavercreek Community Theatre (BCT), Dayton Playhouse, Troy Civic Theatre, Xenia Area Community Theatre, Dayton Theatre Guild, Little Theatre Off Broadway, and the Springfield Civic Theatre. He was a 51-time Daytony winner including 40 awards for Lighting Design and four for Set Design. John was inducted into the Dayton Theatre Hall of Fame in 2018. He was the Treasurer on the BCT Board of Directors and was active in the Ohio Community Theatre Association for over 35 years serving in many capacities. Among his favorite productions were “Company” and “Godspell,” where he shared his talent and creativity with countless audiences.

Johnnie was instrumental in opening the first Little Caesar’s Pizza franchise in Springfield, Ohio. He loved the character, Tigger, from Winnie the Pooh, and enjoyed playing Chess, cards and games with his family and friends. Johnnie is credited with inspiring his siblings, niece and nephews to also sing, dance and perform.

Johnnie leaves behind a legacy of love and creativity. He is survived by his loving mother, Mary Ann Hudson, stepmother, Carol Falkenbach, as well as his siblings: David Michael (Debbie) Falkenbach, Mary Beth (Mark) Goodin, and Gary Joseph (Rita) Falkenbach. He also leaves behind a brother-in-law Robb Butterfield and nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart: Bradley, Jeremy (Caleb), Seth (Matt), Kayla (Mike), Justin (Julie), and one great nephew Syre, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, John C. Falkenbach and sister Amy Butterfield (Falkenbach).

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, December 1st, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME, with a service to begin at 7:00 p.m. Following the service, a meal will begin at 8:00 p.m. in The Landing at Littleton & Rue, providing an opportunity for loved ones to come together, share memories, and celebrate John’s life.