John R. Hand, Sr.

John R. Hand, Sr., 74, of Elmira, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2024, at his home surrounded by family. John was born July 4, 1950, in Kewanee, the son of Joseph Edward Sr. and Catherine June (Crockett) Hand. He graduated from Toulon High School with the class of 1968. John married Crystle Webber on June 5, 1971, in Elmira; she survives.

John is also survived by two children, Sandra (Mitch) Milnes, Tampico, IL, John (Lisa) Hand, Jr., Kewanee; grandchildren, Sydney Hand, Chase (fiancé, Daniella Chino) Milnes, Ben Hand, Drew Milnes; great granddaughter, Katarina Chino-Milnes; his beloved pets, Tinker, Missy; brother, James (Margaret) Hand of Osceola; sister, Janet (Richard) Ingle of Oneida; brother-in-law, Kent Vigor, Kewanee; and sister-in-law, Janet Hand of Peoria, Il. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Rebecca Vigor; three half-sisters; his brother, Joseph Hand, Jr; and his brothers-in-law, Jim Webber, Mike Webber.

John served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. He worked at Caterpillar in Mossville as a machinist; retiring in 2011. He also worked as a mechanic; he could fix anything. John attended Bunker Hill Church, Buda. John enjoyed going to the river with Crystle and his brother, Jim, fishing, and going to the casino. John and Crystle raised exotic birds, they were known as the “Birdie Bunch.” He also enjoyed watching western movies and basketball. He helped Mark Miller on the farm. Together, they tackled both the challenges of fixing machinery and the daily tasks of farming. During his younger years John enjoyed the camaraderie and friendly competition of bowling. John and Crystle also enjoyed spending time with “their peeps” at McDonald’s and Burger King.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Bunker Hill Church, Buda. Memorial services will be at 6:00 pm, Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the church. Pastor Chantha Chhim will officiate. A private burial will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to Bunker Hill Church, Buda. Please leave an online condolence for John’s family at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

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