John William Chesser, 72, of Shelbyville, passed away Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Life’s Journey of Avon.

He was born June 21, 1949, in Shelbyville, the son of Fritz and Julia Kathryn (Kissel) Chesser. On June 19, 1971, he married Linda Read, and she preceded him in death on September 17, 2020.

John is survived by his son, Nicholas Chesser and wife, Dara, of Indianapolis; sister, Kathryn Schmucker and husband, Gregory, of Shelbyville; brother, Kerry Chesser of Kailua, Hawaii; grandchildren, Jaeden Chesser, Adriana Chesser, Aaliyah Chesser and Lynley Chesser; and two nieces, Nikki and Sara; and a nephew, David.

In addition to Linda, John was preceded in death by his parents.

John graduated in 1968 from Shelbyville High School, he continued his education, graduating from Indiana State University in 1972, and receiving his Master’s degree from Indiana University.

He was a member of Elevation Church in Greenwood.

John retired as a science teacher at Shelbyville Middle School in 2012, with 47 years of service. He coached basketball and football for over 25 years.

He enjoyed coaching and painting.

John loved to watch his grandchildren play sports. He was very proud of his son for carrying on his love of coaching and mentoring to children.

A gathering of friends will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2022, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

A Celebration of John and Linda’s lives will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, at the funeral home, with Pastor Tony Potts officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue River Memorial Park, 945 S. Tompkins St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.

Online condolences may be shared with John and Linda’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.