John Berner graduated from Avon Lake High School in 1983. While at Avon Lake John lettered in baseball, track and football. In football, he was a two-time all conference performer, and chosen as conference and team most valuable player in 1981 and co-MVP in 1982. He was also the recipient of the “Golden Helmet Award” in 1982, honoring him as the best player in Lorain County. Berner was picked as an All-State and All-American football player in his Junior and Senior years. The highly respected Street and Smith football rating service picked John as a top-ten position player in the country. In his Junior and Senior year at ALHS Berner gained 3,240 yards rushing, with 31 touchdowns on 700 carries.

Upon graduating from Avon Lake High School, John furthered his education and athletic career at the United States Naval Academy where he played football all four years.

John and his wife Charlene live in Avon Lake with their three children Chelsea, Alex and Bryan. Berner is currently a Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserve and is employed by the Swagelok Company based in Solon.