John Wesley Mechanic was born in Huntington, West Virginia on November 23, 1941. He graduated from Huntington High School in 1960, and enlisted in the USAF in 1961 serving his country proudly for 20 years, including as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam War. He then served his fellow Vets as a Plumber/Pipefitter at the Biloxi VA for another 24 years. John was a member of the Coalville United Methodist Church, and led an active life after retirement as a member of several Mardi Gras Krewes, including serving as the 2007 King of Isis and as a current member of the Calypso Carnival Crewe. He loved camping, going on cruises, and spending time with his family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his son, Jeffery Mechanic; his parents, Frank Mechanic and Opal Shaver; 6 sisters, Edna, Lorena, and Hildreth Mechanic, Evelyn Keesee, Billie Talmadge, and Helen Keating; and 2 brothers, Clifford Mechanic and a newborn brother.

John is survived by his wife of 25 years, Cathy Mechanic; 3 children, Jammie Reece(Ike Stork), John Mechanic II(Stephania), Joel Mechanic(Joilynn); 3 stepchildren, Jaclyn Cochran(Mat), Leanna Vinson(Brian), Thomas Gazzo Jr(Lindsey); 18 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is much loved and will be greatly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to Coalville United Methodist Church.