John Atchley

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John H Atchley, aged 75, on April 7, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was a man of immense humor and outdoor wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. John touched the lives of many individuals throughout his life. He had an amazing ability to make people laugh and tell stories that captivated everyone around him. His sense of humor and storytelling will be remembered by all who knew him.

Born May 31, 1949, in Guntersville, Alabama, John grew up in the foothills of Appalachia, where he found his love of nature with his nine brothers and sisters. He proudly served in the United States Navy for six years, where he served during the Vietnam War. His service and commitment to his country were a source of pride throughout his life. He married Maureen (Huberty) Atchley in 1972 in Chicago, IL. Together they have a daughter Erin (Michael) Dennis of Pleasureville, KY, son John (Stephanie) Atchley of Marseilles, IL, and daughter Christina (Dave) Evans of Streator, IL as well as his four beloved grandchildren Sydney and Adelaide Dennis and Wyatt and Henry Atchley all of whom were a source of great pride and joy. He is also survived by seven siblings Louise Caudle, Virginia Morrow, Jerry Atchley, Larry Atchley, Janice Scott, Jeannette Helton, and Danny Atchley along with wonderful in-laws, nieces and nephews, many friends and countless others who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents Imogene and Theo Atchley and younger brothers Troy Atchley and Ricky Joe Atchley.

John retired from Commonwealth Edison and has enjoyed retirement as an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, gardening and his yearly trips to visit family in Alabama. His number one priority was his family, whom he loved very much. He enjoyed years of watching his grandchildren grow who affectionately called him "Pepaw" or "Papa".

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 12th at St. Patrick Church in Ottawa, IL with Monsignor Mark Merdian officiating. Military rites will be accorded by the Ottawa American Legion Verterans Honor Guard immediately following Mass. Visitation will be from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 12th at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home.

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