Obituaries
John F. McFadden, 68
April 29, 2024
John Frederick McFadden, 68, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 29, 2024, at his home. Born in Dubuque, Iowa, he was the son of Rita P. (Schilling) McFadden and the late John V. McFadden. He was married over 33 years to his beloved wife, Sharon (Smedley) McFadden.
John fiercely battled squamous cell carcinoma for the past 5 years with a positive attitude, stubbornness, determination, a daily goal of walking his beloved dog Buddy and golfing with the “boys” when able, and never complained of pain.
John, also known as Mac, Truck, and Johnny Mac, moved to Lancaster and began St. Leo the Great Catholic School in the 8th grade, followed by Lancaster Catholic High School where he graduated in 1974. He then attended Delaware Valley College of Science and Agriculture, graduating in 1978 with a B.S. in Animal Husbandry. John was adventuresome and upon college graduation, he bought a red Ford F-250 pick-up and traveled across country for over a year.
John had a very extensive and impressive work history spanning over 40 years in the veterinarian pharmaceutical and animal health sales industry. His career began at Pennfield Feeds for a short duration, and soon after he spent 25+ years with Hoechst-Roussel (later known as Inter Vet), and most recently Bio-Vet that lasted 12+ years. His well-rounded knowledge in the areas of nutrition, microbials, feed, pharmaceuticals, and large animals aided him in earning respect and awards from peers, customers, and businesses in the industry. John did not care about awards, although he received many; he just believed in a job well done.
John was simply a good person. During the past 2 months, he had over 50 visitors at his home. Many of those visitors included classmates from LCHS with whom he shared great memories and friendships for the past 50 years. He also built many business friendships over the past 40 years. He was described as a man of integrity, his preferred way of doing business was in person, a handshake was his word. He was considered honest, trustworthy, and fair, and developed many long-term relationships with generational farms and businesses. He had great respect for the plain community, who believed in hard work and humility, just as he did. A beautiful tribute to John were members of the plain community getting a driver to visit at his home and reminisce of their years together and say goodbye. They said John was a big presence and you knew he was there by his booming voice and laughter. They had fun playing many pranks on each other over the years. John was also described by members of the agricultural business community as a strong influence and mentor to the younger generation.
John was a die-hard Pirates and Steelers fan, and his liking of Iron City Beer reflected his love for these teams. However, Guiness draft was his favorite, along with Smith’s Hotel cheesesteaks, Yocco’s hotdogs, and pierogis. He enjoyed golfing, softball, and Pinochle with his buddies with whom he shared many great times, memories, and laughs. The “boys” will miss him dearly and will fondly remember the last 40-50 years. John was a problem-solver, always had goals, and never needed to be asked twice to get something done. Anytime he was asked how he was doing, he responded, “Top of the world and climbing higher.”
John was a long-time member of St. Leo the Great Catholic church and volunteered countless hours in their sports programs. He received the Man of the Year Award granted by St. Leo Athletic Association. John was always proud to coach any sport his son, Peter, played, and was often seen preparing the fields for baseball games.
John was extremely proud of his son, Peter. He was always a caring, compassionate, and loving dad, but knew how to have fun and be adventurous. Although he left Dubuque over 50 years ago, he has always remained close, visiting every opportunity he had. In return, his relatives frequently visited Lancaster. Most recently, to show his determination and love of family, he arranged a long weekend in March for 9 family members to visit, share an Amish meal, and attend a mud sale.
He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. John is survived by his wife, Sharon, son, Peter S. McFadden, mother, Rita, sister, Cheryl Lishon (Lester), nieces and nephew: Danyelle Onda (Joe), Kerry Lishon, Ryan Lishon, and Brittney Lishon; great-nieces: Kendall Lishon and Vivian Onda; along with 8 aunts and uncles and 52 first cousins and their families. He was predeceased by his father, John V., cousin Vicki Schmitt, and 19 aunts and uncles. He was also recently predeceased by his 4-legged companion and best friend, Buddy, who was by his side and brought him great joy and comfort for the last 11+ years.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Friday, May 3, 2024, at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2427 Marietta Ave, Lancaster, PA 17601, with no visitation prior per John’s wishes. Interment will follow at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at 1:30 PM at Blue Collar Restaurant, 949 Church St, Landisville, PA 17538.
John’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the healthcare providers that cared for him during his cancer journey. Your care and compassion will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in John’s name to CURE Childhood Cancer, 200 Ashford Center North, Ste 250, Atlanta, GA 30338, Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604, or to Lancaster Catholic High School Educational Fund, 650 Juliette Ave, Lancaster, PA 17601.
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Condolences to the Family
July 26, 2024
Dear Sharon and Peter,
We just learned of John’s passing and read the obituary. We are so terribly sorry for your loss. John was a strong, honest and decent person who will be sorely missed by so many people. I am certain that he has now found peace. with deepest sympathy,
Amanda and Dave Campbell
July 17, 2024
Sharon and Peter,
I just saw the obituary for John. I’m sorry for your loss. I did not realize he was battling an illness. John and I were friends in high school. We have an insurance agency which specializes in farms so I ran into John at different Farm events. It was great to reconnect with him.
Craig Morrissey
July 13, 2024
Sharon and Peter, I am so sorry for your loss of a great husband and dad. I just learned of his death in DVU’s Alumni Magazine. I was fortunate enough to get to know “Ogre”, as we called him, as a classmate at Delaware Valley College. Being with him was always an adventure. I have a lot of great memories from that part of my life oftentimes because of his initiatives. He will be sorely missed.
Doug Graham
May 09, 2024
Dear Sharon and Peter, I am so sad to hear of Mac’s passing and wish you both peace in knowing that his struggles have ended. Much love being sent to both of you. Mac was a very special person and much loved by all who knew him.
Judy Pena
May 08, 2024
I regret not having known John better. I know that he was a good son, a good husband, a good father, and a good man. Our prayers will continue to be with John and all his family. May God bless John and keep him in eternity.
Shane Stevenson
May 06, 2024
Godspeed Cousin John. I cherish the memories I have of you and all our family. My condolences to Sharon and Peter. RIP.
Tim McFadden
May 05, 2024
Through a mutual friend of John’s from college, we became aware of John’s illness. Our love goes out to Cherly and Mrs. McFadden, our long ago family neighbors on Mill Mar Road. Love from all of us and our deepest sympathy.
Pam (Wash) and Chip Hoffman
May 03, 2024
Dear Sharon, Peter & family, I am shocked to see this….as a former LCHS classmate & a nearby neighbor I would see John over the years out in the yard working but did not know of his struggle.
May he rest in the peace of the Lord.
Bruno S. Schmalhofer
May 02, 2024
My sincere condolences to John’s family. I only new John while a classmate at Lancaster Catholic. He was a good guy with a big heart, a great laugh, and fun to be around. He will truly be missed by all who new him.
Rest in Peace John!
Steve Martin
May 02, 2024
This obituary touched me. I grew up the neighbor to John’s mother, Rita, and had the fun privilege of interacting with John from time to time. He was fun-loving, strong, and kind. I’m moved to tears as I type this, which, to me, is testimony to the poignant and lasting impression John left on me.
John, thank you for touching so many lives. I’m grateful to have known you.
Warmly,
Tommy Meredith
May 02, 2024
Dear Sharon and Peter, We hold you in our thoughts during this challenging time. It has been a privilege being your neighbor for so many years. We will continue to think of John outside working in the yard. He always gave the best wave to say hello. He was a good person and we know that you will continue to hold John in your hearts. We will be with you in spirit during the funeral since we are not able to be there in person.
Blessings Tom and Wendy Hallowell
May 02, 2024
I was one of his golfing buddies. We had 134 wins together with no losses. Tommy kept it in his book.The other team quit. I will have great memories of John. I officially never met you Sharron but he had great thing to say about you. I guess you had your hands full. John was a piece of work. I’m not sure when I worked I know I did and he did. We all kept each other up to date and what was happening in the county.
Steve Wolfgang
May 02, 2024
Like all that knew John, I loved his boisterous voice and laugh. I remember John as a “Great” guy. Unfortunately I did not get a chance to enjoy his positive attitude and generousity later life, as I moved away from the Lancaster area after school. I know John will be greatly missed by his family and friends, my sincere condolences.
Mark Diehl
May 01, 2024
Many years ago I witnessed the greatest display of sportmanship i out and trotted omy 43 years of umpiring softball. It was at Manheim Township High School during the Sunday Softball League. He raised his voice and got into an argument with an opposing player. When the side was retired and his team went into bat, frustrated that he even did this, he called time out and trotted over to the player he had an argument with. With a smile on his face he stuck out his hand and shook hands with the player. I shall never forget this after all of these years. A true gentleman. Be at peace. David A Boas
May 01, 2024
Sharon, I am deeply saddened by this news. My deepest condolences to you and Peter. Janet Baer
May 01, 2024
John was a true gentleman – one who never inflicts a wound. He was also one of my heros. Mac was the most optimistic, possitive person I ever met and it was always a pleasure to be around him. I will miss him greatly.
Mike DiPaolo
May 01, 2024
I am sorry to hear of the passing of John. Sharron please feel my heartfelt hug. Craig Anderson my husband that passed away from cancer two years ago was a very good friend and business colleague of John. During their battle with cancer they encouraged each other daily. I remember them always laughing on the phone. They literally held each other up during their battles with this relentless disease. I picture them now playing pranks in Heaven also happy and restored health. Sharon you and your beautiful family will be in my prayers. Again I am so sorry for your loss. My heart knows this pain. I pray you feel John close as I feel Craig. All my love ❤️🩹
Robyn Anderson
May 01, 2024
I have fond memories of John from back in the HR Vet days. We were always in the same sales training group and Johnny Mac always kept us entertained. I remember him bringing Yacco dogs to our meeting and on another meeting going to New York on a cold day in April to watch the Mets play the Astros. A great man he will be missed.
Jim Miles
May 01, 2024
Sharon and Peter-
i was saddened to read of John’s death; he was just a great guy with an indomitable spirit. I was always happy to see John’s name on my schedule because he brightened my day; I think of him and you with great affection. Hopefully your memories of him will help to sustain you.
My prayers are coming your way-
Mary Kegel
May 01, 2024
Sharon, Sue and I were heartbroken to hear of John’s death. It was always a pleasure to see his smiling face. Unfortunately, we will be away at the time of his funeral service but know that we are praying for him and you. God bless you.
Steve Senkowski
April 30, 2024
John was a good friend of mine in high school – a fellow red head! Sadly I lost track of him as I moved around seeing him the last time at our 45th LCHS reunion. I kept tabs on him through our mutual friends Fathr Peter Hahn and Devon Pete Jupin when I moved back to the area in the last few years and kept hm in my prayers. Your were a good man John and are sorely missed! My condolences to his family.
Ray Anater
April 30, 2024
So sorry to see this; he was indeed the definition of a good man.
Greg Heroux
- Services
- Friday, May 03, 2024
- 11:00 AM
- St. Leo the Great Catholic Church
- 2427 Marietta Ave
- Lancaster, PA 17601
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