John K. Calhoun

John Keith Calhoun, 75 of Pekin passed away on Saturday, December 9th, 2023 in the CVICU at Carle Health Methodist in Peoria, IL. John was born July 15, 1948 to Cleo K. Calhoun and Wilma F. Bell. He married Karen Crawford on December 14, 2004 in Las Vegas, NV. He was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Roy Golden and mother-in-law, Doris Golden. Surviving are: his wife, Karen Calhoun of Pekin; one daughter, Jenny (Jimmy) Witherell of Santa Barbara, CA; one son, Jason Calhoun of Santa Barbara, CA; three grandchildren, Jack Calhoun, Liam Witherell and Luna Witherell; five siblings, Susan Calhoun of Pekin, Robert Calhoun of Florida, Deborah (Calhoun) Young of Pekin, Michael Calhoun and Barbara Calhoun of Pekin; mother-in-law, Shari Golden of Pekin. He also leaves behind his fury friends, Geoffrey, Gracie, Sophie, Highsmith and Anna. John was a 1966 graduate of Pekin High School. He served in the United States Navy and was stationed on the USS Hoel (DDG-13), during the Vietnam War, manning and working on the ships radar. He served from 1966 1972. John worked for Keystone Steel and Wire Company in Bartonville as an electrician, retiring in 2014. Although challenging at times, John enjoyed working on the antiquated locomotives at Keystone. He also worked at Texas Instruments where he helped improve the design and implantation of products. Additionally, John worked for Raytheon in California. He worked on radar and electric systems for naval and military application. John loved music. He sang, played the guitar and violin. He was a top-rated violin player in school, winning first place ribbons. John was a train enthusiast. He had a penchant for the history of trains; collection and going to train shows. He was a bit of a daredevil. He competed in dirt bike competitions and enjoyed watching motocross. One of his hobbies was repairing dirt bikes. His other hobbies include doing oodles of challenging crossword puzzles and collecting owls. John was a wonderful loving person, He was treasured by many and loved by all. John will be remembered for having a big mustache, an awesome sense of humor, and being a good listener. He liked listening to stories and could spin some too. He enjoyed spending time with his wife and family. Visitation will be at 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Monday, December, 18, 2023 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory. A memorial service will follow at 10:30 AM with Pastor Stephen Barch officiating. The United States Navy and Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team will provide military honors following the service. Cremation has been accorded. Memorial contributions may be made to Pets for Seniors, 3809 N. Sterling, Peoria, IL 61615