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.