John Charles Horner

On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, John peacefully passed away at home, with Becky alongside. His heart was simply too tired to continue on. He had been blessed with continual hugs, kisses and I love you's from his family for the two days prior.

John was born May 14, 1942 in Ft Wayne, Indiana to Charles and Helen Horner. His childhood was spent in Bowling Green, KY and Detroit, MI.

He was the third generation to graduate from Drake University. He had attended one year of law school before deciding his ego wasn't big enough to be an attorney. He chose to work for Aetna Insurance, adjusting claims before being a branch claim manager. He ended his career as Vice President of Claims for Holmes, Murphy & Associates. While working for Aetna in Pittsburgh, PA, he became a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan, going to their games to see the Iron Curtain at work.

In his younger days he felt he had a civic duty to fulfill. He chose to become a volunteer fireman which he absolutely loved. Moving to lowa, he joined the West Des Moines Fire department as a volunteer, where he eventually rose to the rank of Batallion Chief, Station 1. He retired only because of his move to Mitchellville.

From his first marriage, he had two daughters Lori (Dave) Melz, and Amy (Brad) Davidson. In 1996 he married Becky Pitman from Mitchellville, and gained 4 more daughters, Erica (Mike) Gentry, Carrie Diaz (fiancé, Barry Rhinehart), Lydia Pitman and Hannah Pitman. He referred to his home as The House of Hormones. He also has 10 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Preceding him in death was his best friend of 30 years, WDM Fire Chief Randy Bracken. For the last 15 years, he's quietly mourned the loss of that wonderful friendship.

Visitation and Funeral Mass will be Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Saints John & Paul Catholic Church, 1401 1st Avenue S, Altoona, Iowa. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am, with the Funeral Mass starting at 11:00 am. A luncheon in the Church Hall will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mitchellville (lowa) Fire Department, AHeinz 57 Dog Rescue, DeSoto, IA, or Saints John & Paul Parish, Altoona, IA

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