John M. Hornell

John Michael Hornell, 66, son of Charles and Glorya Hornell of Elkhart, Indiana passed away with family by his side, on Sunday, August 27, 2023. John was born on February 12, 1957, in Pittsburgh, PA and his family relocated several times before settling in Elkhart, Indiana. John graduated from Elkhart Central High School, Class of 1975, and served in the United States Airforce. He later attended and graduated from Indiana University. He had an active career in auto sales in Utah, before returning to Elkhart with his loving partner, Mary Weaver.
John relished his role as Uncle Johnny and Stepdad to his children whom he loved and mentored. John lit up a room with his contagious, trademark smile. His care-free and joyful nature reminded everyone around him to embrace the present and enjoy the little things. His qualities of being youthful and funny made him the easiest person to talk to and greatly loved by all who knew him.
An avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed fishing whether the water was unsalted or salted. He loved the beach, nature preserves and parks and had such a gentle nature, he was often an animal and bird whisperer with animals eating out of his hand. John's adventure bug took him to places around the world and he never left a destination without making a new friend.
John's favorite thing to do was go to the Indy 500 with his life-long friend Ted and they attended over thirty plus Runnings of the Indianapolis 500, along with countless other races in the IndyCar Series. Ask John what his favorite day, favorite holiday or time of the year was, and his answer was always, "The Indy 500!"
John is survived by his partner Mary Weaver, his father Charles Hornell, (Sharon Wright) his sister Nancy (Timothy) Hoying, Deb Hornell, his nieces and nephews: Laura (Phillip) Yudys, Lindsay (Corey) Dickson, Matt (Kate) Hornell, Rachel (Charlie) Santoro, Ryan Hoying, and Megan Hoying; and Dana Weaver.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Glorya Hornell, brother Bill Hornell, and sister, Susan Hornell.
Celebration of life arrangements full of laughter and dancing per his wishes are pending. Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions in Indianapolis is honored to handle John's cremation arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association https://www.lbda.org or any wildlife preservation organization of your choosing.
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