John Preston Van Horne, Jr., age 81, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. John was born in Catawba County on Wednesday, July 19, 1944 to the late John Preston Van Horne, Sr., and Ora Maybelle Bowman Van Horne.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Janet Van Horne.
John was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a generous man who would help anyone in need and enjoyed taking care of his family. John was a great dad to his two daughters. He thought the world of his grandchildren and would brag about them as often as he could. John was an avid golfer who hit a few holes in one. He enjoyed going to and watching golf tournaments and NASCAR races. John was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
Those left to cherish John’s memory are his daughters, Julie Connor (Tracy), Jana Brown (Scott Thompson) and grandchildren, Brittany Connor, Matthew Connor, Janelle Brown. The family would like to thank caregiver, Susan Hitaffer for the loving care she gave their father.
There will be a private graveside ceremony for John officiated by Pastor Peter Frank and Pastor Eric Hauss.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or to Carolina Caring.
Condolences may be sent to the Van Horne family at www.drumfh-conover.com
The Van Horne family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Drum Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Conover, NC.
