John W. “Jack” Down, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home near Bishop Hill Ill., on Nov. 2, 2026.

Jack was born April 1, 1939, to John and Tena (Durling) Down and raised on the family farm in Stark County, Ill. At the age of ten, he moved with his family to Cambridge, Ill., in Henry County. It was there that his roots in agriculture and appreciation for rural life continued to grow. Farming became much more than a career for Jack; it was his passion and a way of life that he cherished throughout the years. He graduated from Cambridge High School and attended Augustana College before returning home to farm. On Dec. 8, 1963, he married Kay Stevens in Hanna City Ill., and they started a life together just a few miles outside of Bishop Hill Ill.

Jack was actively involved in the farm bureau and served as president of the Galva School Board. He was also involved in Henry County 4-H and was a member of the Bishop Hill Fire Department. He loved to fish and cheer on the Chicago Cubs.

His faith was an important part of his life. Jack was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church in Galva, Ill., where he served on the church council and various boards. He especially enjoyed singing in the church choir which he did for 71 years. His love of music led him to share his voice at numerous weddings and funerals throughout the years.

Above all, Jack treasured his family. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kay; his daughter, Christina (Pete) Main of Altona, Ill.; and his son, Steven (Gina) Down of Dix, Ill. He was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Tyler (Elise) Main, Bethany Main, Madelyn Main and her fiancé, Lance Meyer, Kaylee Down and Dillon Down; and one great-grandson, Mitchell Main, who brought him tremendous joy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gloria Humphreys.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 7 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Galva with Rev. Randy Swanson officiating. A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m., Friday, Nov.6 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. The burial will be in Galva Cemetery. Donations in memory of Jack may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church, ROWVA FFA, or to the Bishop Hill Fire Department.