Obituaries : John Mayhew

John Mayhew, 67, of Vinton, passed away at his beloved home on the river surrounded by his wife and girls on Monday, February 12, 2024, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, February 16, 2024, at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street) in Vinton with Rev. Brian Channel officiating. Interment will be held at Maplewood Cemetery, with lunch to follow at the Vinton Legion Hall. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Thursday at the funeral home.

John was born November 28, 1956, the son of Marlyn and Shirley (Bantz) Mayhew.

He graduated from Washington High School in Vinton, with the class of 1975. John was united in marriage to Laurie White on October 14, 1978, at Oak Grove Church.

John was a lifelong mechanic, working at L&D Implement in Vinton for 12 years and as a heavy machinery mechanic for Benton County Secondary Roads, and later as a snowplow driver for the county for 32 years.

JM was a dependable problem solver with a great sense of humor. Known for his iconic mustache, blue Chevy truck, and cut off t-shirts.

John loved muscle cars throughout his life. He was a proud member of the Vinton Cruise Committee for 36 years and enjoyed leading his last lap at the 2023 cruise this past summer. He also enjoyed fishing, cooking, boating, and mushroom hunting. He also had an appreciation for antiques and gardening. His greatest joy was attending his grandson's sporting events and family vacations.

John is survived by his wife Laurie; daughters, Hilary (Mike) Kastner of Cedar Rapids, and Hanna (Mike) Thuesen of Janesville; 3 grandsons, Max, Luke, and Jake Kastner; his father Marlyn Mayhew; and 2 sisters, Linda (Wayne) Siela of Vinton, and Leanne Mayhew of Iowa City; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Shirley.

Cheers to a life well lived, and one hell of a guy. Please direct memorials to the family.

Online condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com