John Edward Ewell Jr.

Born September 12, 1956 in Pekin to John E. and Mary Elizabeth (Cavins) Ewell, Sr., he married his loving wife of 44 years, Virginia Talley on March 22, 1978 in Kewanee. She survives.

John is lovingly remembered by his two daughters, Stephanie Parrish of Canton and Terri (Robert) Rice of Pekin; one son, David Ewell of Pekin; two grandsons, William “Billy” Ewell of Winter Haven, Florida and Easton Ewell of Pekin; four granddaughters, Alexis Chambers of Canton, Elizabeth (Austin) Fiegel of Pekin, Braden Rice of Pekin, and Adyison Nance of Decatur, Tennessee; one brother, James Ewell of Hanna City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, William “Bud” Ewell, Sr.; and two sisters, Barb (Ewell) Jackson and Kathy (Ewell) Williams.

He was a graduate of Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

John held many jobs. He was a member of the Schaeferville Fire Department from March of 1981 to January 1992. He held the title of Fire Chief from April 1987 to January 1992. He loved his fire brothers and sisters; he was always there when they needed him on a call or away from the station. This is where John showed his children how important it was to help others.

He worked at Central Illinois Grain Inspection for 15 years. John also spent 10 years at Lange Animal Clinic in Pekin, working as a vet technician.

John enjoyed hunting, fishing, working on cars and fixing anything he can.

A benefit will be held starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 19, 2022 at BG’s Karaoke Saloon, 4204 West Pfeiffer Road in Bartonville. A gathering celebrating his life will be held at a later date.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.