John Richard Pastor

John Richard Pastor, 44, of Brookhaven, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, John was the son of Rick and Claudia Pastor, now living in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, and the father of two incredible kids, Hazel and Grant. He attended Kenosha public schools and was a 1999 graduate of Tremper High School, where he played tenor saxophone in jazz and symphonic band. He studied psychology and history in college and lived in Chicago and then Atlanta, where he embraced warm weather living.

John was a talented chef, musician, and storyteller who charmed family and friends with delicious food, good company, and uncanny impressions. He was especially close to his uncle, Dan Pastor. He had an excellent sense of humor and a knack for finding and preparing ingredients in a way that elevated your understanding of how wonderful an apple or carrot could taste. He loved traveling, growing vegetables, being outdoors, and spending time with his beloved children, friends, and dogs.

In addition to his parents, John is survived by his children, Hazel, 8, and Grant, 6; by their mother, his former wife, Liz Pastor; by his sister, Julie Pastor, of New York, NY; by his uncle Dan and aunt Kay Pastor, of Palmetto, FL; by his uncle Brian and aunt Mary Kuehl of Waukesha, WI; and by many cousins. He was predeceased by his uncle David Kuehl.

Memorial contributions may be made in John's honor to Phantom Lake YMCA Camp, where he spent many happy summers and made close lifelong friends. Donations can be made online or by mail to Phantom Lake YMCA Camp, S110W30240 YMCA Camp Road, Mukwonago, Wisconsin 53149.