John Michael Horaney, 75, peacefully died in Galesburg, the place of his birth, on Nov. 10, 2023. He was born on Feb. 14, 1948, to the late Robert W. and Rosemary (Tederman) Horaney.
John received his high school diploma from Corpus Christi High School in 1966, and later gained a bachelor’s degree in business from Monmouth College. His dedication and hard work were apparent in his profession as warehouseman and truck driver for many years at G&M Distributors, followed by a successful path as a car salesman until retiring from Yemm Autos in 2013.
John’s devout Catholic faith played a significant role in his life. He actively served the Corpus Christi Catholic Church as a reader and usher, and contributed a great number of volunteer hours towards church activities and God’s Portion Day. Gracing many local offices, he will be remembered as a Past Grand Knight and for the honor he brought upon the Father JO Hunt Knights of Columbus and Knights of Columbus 4th Degree as a District Deputy for the State Council and Peoria Diocese Charity Chairman.
Aside from his devotion to faith and work, John enjoyed playing golf and was a passionate Chicago Bears enthusiast. His interests extended beyond himself, enriching the lives of those he met and interacted with.
John married Dawn Rochelle Sparling on Sept. 18, 1976, in Galesburg. They were blessed with 47 years of marriage until her recent passing on Oct. 25, 2023. He was a much-loved father to Lori Horaney of Galesburg and Amy (Joseph) Blanchard of Mascoutah, a brother to Mary Jo (Richard) Porter of Champaign, and a cherished sibling to his late twin siblings, Joe and Patty Horaney. He also shared a close bond with his cousin Jim (Susan) Jackson of Parkertown, New Jersey, who was raised alongside him.
Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Fourth Degree service will be at 7:00 p.m. with praying of the rosary to follow. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Galesburg. Father William T. Miller will officiate. Burial will be alongside his wife at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Knights of Columbus to benefit the mentally handicapped drive. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
