John F. Mackey, son of Arne and Alice (Hedblad) Mackey, was born June 8, 1934. After a life well lived, he passed away peacefully in his home on May 31, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Geise Funeral Chapel in Estelline, South Dakota. A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Estelline, South Dakota. Interment will follow at Olivet Cemetery in Lake Norden, South Dakota.

John received his education in rural school in Laketon Township Dist #36, Brookings County, SD. After receiving his education, he farmed and was employed at Norden Motor in Lake Norden, SD. He served in the United States Army from 1957 until 1959. He was united in marriage to Neva Moeller on September 15, 1962, in Estelline, SD. In 1964, they moved into Estelline and he continued running the family farm. They also owned and operated a photography business for several years.

John was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and served on many church boards. He was also a member of the American Legion and the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed traveling, flying, motorcycling, and rarely passed up an opportunity for a new adventure.

More than anything, John loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of those he loved. His family was his greatest joy, and the memories he created with them will be treasured for generations.

Though known for his many talents and larger-than-life personality, John also had a remarkably gentle heart. He had a special kindness for animals and little creatures of all kinds, never too busy to stop and lend a helping hand to something smaller than himself. His compassion and quiet acts of care left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness them.

John was also well known for his lifelong fascination with explosives. If there was a loud boom nearby, chances are John wanted to know all about it—or better yet, be part of it. His enthusiasm for dynamite and all things that went bang became legendary among family and friends. While he may be gone from our sight, we like to think that every roll of thunder overhead is John discovering an endless supply of dynamite and enjoying himself as only he could.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Neva of Estelline; two daughters, Teresa Moore and her husband Darryl of Arlington and Nancy Geerdes and her husband Mark of Swea City, IA; five grandchildren, Eric, Brittney, John, Dallas, and Cody; three step-grandchildren, Ashley, Austin, and Tomarah; and four great-grandchildren, Tucker, Brinley, Hudson, and Beckett.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Roger, in infancy; and his mother- and father-in-law, Ray and Elsie Moeller.