John Edward Lebeck

John grew up on a family farm in rural Illinois, an upbringing that shaped the steady character and practical outlook that guided his life. He graduated from the University of Illinois, where he was a member of the Alpha Chi Rho fraternity and discovered a passion for journalism. In 1963 he traveled to Venezuela through the International Farm Youth Exchange (IFYE), working on farms and living with host families—an experience that broadened his perspective and strengthened his independence.

Upon returning to the United States, he met Mary Pat in New York, who was returning from her IFYE program in Luxembourg. They married in 1965. During this time, John served six years in the Illinois Air National Guard as a medic.

John began his career with Rockford Newspapers before working in advertising within the agribusiness industry. In 1979 he and Mary Pat purchased the Star Shopper newspaper in Stoughton, Wisconsin. Then in 1982, together with Dick and Diane Anderson, they purchased the Courier Hub and formed Stoughton Newspapers. Later, John worked as a realtor in Stoughton with Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group. He was active in Covenant Lutheran Church, First Frisco Global Methodist Church, and civic organizations in both Stoughton, Wisconsin, and Frisco, Texas.

John loved photography and travel and remained devoted to family and faith throughout his life.

He is survived by his sons Mike (Allison) Lebeck of Richardson, TX; Steve (Julia) Lebeck of Cheyenne, WY; and Brian (Mandy) Lebeck of Nashville, TN, and five grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 18th at Touchmark at Emerald Lake, McKinney, TX. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Kids Resource Library at First Frisco Global Methodist Church.The memorial service will be broadcast live via Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/events/1415958326935818/