Kevil, KY John Vanleer, age 65, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Baptist Health in Paducah, KY. He was born on March 4, 1961, in Springfield, ILL to his late parents, George and Kathleen (Norris) Vanleer.
John passed away leaving behind a life full of simple joys, loyalty, and love for the people and animals closest to him. He will be remembered most for his ability to joke around and bring joy to people he cared for. John found happiness in cooking for others, especially having the chance to do a big crab boil and invite family and friends to join in.
He often tried to start the mornings, or afternoons, according to the shift, when he would make breakfast for his beloved wife, Debbie. Those small, everyday moments were some of the ways he showed his love best. They had a way of turning a bickering moment into a loving gesture like cooking her breakfast before work to show he cared.
He had a deep love for his four dogs, who were constant companions throughout his life. Among them, his bond with Bomber was especially strong.
In his younger years, John enjoyed participating in Civil War reenactments which were a point of pride for him. Pictures of him in those days really showcased his character.
Later in life, he found peace in quieter pastimes, like scanning the fields for deer with his binoculars, often with his dogs faithfully by his side. John also enjoyed fishing and spending time outdoors, as well as playing games like rummy—where he was known, with a smile, to bend the rules just a little…you know, “cheating”. He will be remembered for his humor, his love of nature, and the way he made everyday moments more meaningful by his love for breaking bread with the one’s he loved.
John’s presence will be deeply missed by Debbie, his loyal dogs, and all who knew and loved him. His family beyond thankful and Blessed for all the people that helped care for him these past years.
A huge Thank You to his nurse, Michelle Marbry for being so down to earth, caring and for providing the newest dog to the home, Major Payne.
He is survived by his wife, Debbie Vanleer of Kevil, Ky; two daughters, Allie Farmer of Chatham, IL and Brandy Allen of Springfield, IL; two stepsons, Chris Kehrer of Kevil, KY and Brandon Kehrer of Kevil, KY; three brothers, Ron Vanleer of Parker, CO, Tom Vanleer of Sherman, IL, and Jim Vanleer of Springfield, IL; eight grandchildren, Kinley, Khloe, Gaven, Bryson, Brylee, Maddox, MaKinna and Bryer.
John was preceded in death by a grandson, Jacob Inskip, a sister, Judy Benjamin, a brother Kenneth Vanleer and his parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
