John Earl Coyer

John Earl Coyer, 92, passed away peacefully at his home on October 6, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him most. Born on May 20, 1934, in Knox, John was the son of Earl and Stella (Kinney) Coyer.

John's remarkable work ethic began at an early age. After completing the seventh grade, he entered the workforce at just 16 years old as a laborer with Larson-Danielson. Through hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn, he earned a bricklayer apprenticeship and went on to build a successful career in masonry. John worked for Larson-Danielson for many years before joining Ramenda Masonry, where he remained until retiring at the age of 60. He was also a longtime member of Bricklayers Local 6.

Although his formal education ended early, John never stopped learning. Naturally gifted and largely self-taught, he could read construction blueprints and electronic schematics and had an incredible ability to understand how things worked. Over the course of his career, he became trusted to oversee large job sites and contributed his craftsmanship to projects at the University of Notre Dame, area schools and churches, and even one of Oprah Winfrey's properties in LaPorte. His family took great pride in all that John accomplished and in the life he created through his own determination, skill, and hard work. John's talents extended well beyond his career. A self-taught mechanic, there wasn't much he couldn't figure out or repair.

On June 12, 1955, John married his childhood sweetheart, Cecelia Eileen Cox, in a small, private ceremony at her home. Together, they built a life and family, welcoming their children, Daniel and Jennifer. John and Eileen shared 38 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on March 10, 1993.

John was fortunate to find love again with Patricia A. Larkin-Dallas. They were united in marriage on September 21, 1996, and enjoyed 28 years together before Patti's passing on December 10, 2024.

Another of John's great passions was his model railroad. He spent countless hours expanding the layout in his basement and enjoyed attending train shows whenever he had the opportunity. What made the hobby especially meaningful was being able to share it with his family. He loved passing along his enthusiasm for trains and Hess vehicles to his great-grandsons, Easton and Jameson.

John was also a member of Plymouth-Kilwinning Masonic Lodge #149 and attained the 32nd Degree of the Scottish Rite.

John's life was a testament to the value of hard work and the belief that a willingness to learn could take you far. From entering the workforce as a teenager to becoming a skilled craftsman, he created a life of which his family is immensely proud. The things he constructed and restored were evidence of his abilities, but the family he loved and the example he leaves behind are the truest measures of a life well lived.

John is survived by his children, Daniel Coyer and Jennifer (Paul) Connolly; grandchildren, Christyn (Ricky) Hooker, Cameron (Brittany) Connolly, and Amanda (Josh) Wilson; 7 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lila, Nancy, and Bonnie; and brother, Chuckie.

John is preceded in death by his 1st wife, Eileen; 2nd wife, Patricia; parents, Earl and Stella; granddaughter, Sarah Coyer; daughter-in-law, Kathy Coyer; along with 5 brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 10-11AM at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11AM.

Burial will take place at New Oak Hill Cemetery in Plymouth.

Memorial contributions can be directed to the Center for Hospice Care, 1419 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563.