John W. Schleicher

John Wright Schleicher was born on April 11, 1942, in Natick, Massachusetts, to Ervin and Constance (Somers) Schleicher. John passed away on January 22, 2026, at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs at the age of 83.

He married Jeannie Lynn in 1965. To this union, three children were born: Christopher, Candis, and Charles. They divorced in 1980. He married Ruth Fraser in 1981 and divorced in 1987. He gained three stepchildren (Adonna, Bannon, and Shana). Married Mary Ann Rossman in 1988 and gained four stepchildren (Curtis, Melanie, Clinton, and Christopher).

John served in the National Guard from 1964 to 1970. John worked for Daniels Trucking, farmed North of Whitney and C&NW RR. John moved to LaPort, IN, in 1967. He worked for New York Blower, Bendix, and Southbend Freight. He moved back to Chadron in 1978. Farmed for DeHaven’s, then worked for C&NW RR until 1990.

In 1991, John was a self-employed semi driver. He retired in 2004. John belonged to the HWY 20 Antique Tractor Club for 26 years and enjoyed working on antique tractors (especially junk ones that nobody else would want), tractor rides, and tractor pulls. He was a loving and kind Dad and Grampy.

John is survived by his wife of 38 years, Mary Ann, 3 brothers: Robert (Bertie), David (Joyce), and Richard (Nina). His three children: Christopher (Brenda), Candis (Ken) Briggs, Charles (Pam), and six stepchildren: Curtis Rossman (Kris), Melanie Tidyman, Clinton Rossman (Brooke), Christopher Rossman (Lori), Adonna, and Bannon, 17 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren (all of which received tractor rides).

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Constance Schleicher, stepmother Barbara Schleicher, and a stepdaughter, Shana Lyndsey.

A memorial has been established for the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department or the HWY 20 Antique Tractor Club. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron NE 69337. Reception to follow the service at the American Legion with refreshments.