John Lewis Berhow

John Lewis Berhow Jr, 68, of Shannon, IL joined his son in Heaven on February 21st, 2024.
John was born on September 18th, 1956 at Ames, IA, the son of John and Lena Delores (Howell) Berhow, Sr.. He married Paula Loomis from Morrison, IL, and together they had a son, Shawn M. Berhow, in 1981. Later he married Julia Brainerd, from Dixon, Il. Although both marriages didn't work out, they remained friends until his passing.
He worked for nearly 2 decades at Northwest Steel & Wire Co, after the shutdown he went back to school in his mid-40's. He attended SVCC where he got his associate's degree as a Radiology Technician and went on to work at The KSB Clinic in Oregon, IL for over a decade. He enjoyed his patients and co-workers during his time there.
John was a dedicated father, and was involved consistently in Shawn's academics, sports, and had weekly "guys days" (sometimes multiple times a week). Which always included buying a new pack of sports cards when he was younger. They would spend hours, and I mean, hours watching all the sports you can imagine. But especially the Bears, Bulls, & Cubs. Only getting up for required snacks, and bathroom breaks. John was devoted to his son. This relationship carried on until Shawn's death in 21'.
John was so much of a dedicated father, when Shawn's baby sister, Dawn wanted to come along one day, he obliged. This quickly became a frequent occurrence, and Dawn spent weekends with John & Julia for her entire childhood. John was tenderhearted and enjoyed having a "daughter". Every weekend was an adventure, and always sure to include a trip to Toys R Us. Later on in life, when Dawn had children of her own, he remained a present figure and continued his legacy of love.
John had an infectious laugh, and for those who have heard it, you know what I'm talking about. He was a giver and would help anyone and everyone. In his personal time, John was passionate about motorcycles and enjoyed long rides and tinkering with his bike. He was a member of Harvest Time Bible Church, where he was baptized and became a member in 1999. Although John was a larger man, this big guy loved his little dogs! Especially Patch & Minnie who passed away in years previously.
In John's final years, he struggled with the loss of his son and lost his way. He would want anyone who reads this to know there is help for you, there are people who love and care for you, Jesus loves and cares for you. "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Ps. 23:4)
He is survived by his father, John Berhow Sr (Marilyn) of Oviedo, FL; honorary daughter, Dawn Heckman (Jarren) of Shannon, IL; childhood friend, Chuck Krabbenhoeft from Sterling, IL; special kids, Chloe, Brantley and Lake. John was preceded in death by his mother, Lena Delores Berhow, his son, Shawn M. Berhow, and his brother, Bruce Berhow.
There are no services planned at this time.