John P. Hiatt, 76, of Valparaiso, Indiana finally ran out of luck, bourbon, and brake pads on March 20th, 2025. His exit was as grand as his entrance—dramatic, a little reckless, and full of stories no one will ever fully believe. Born with a need for speed and an intolerance for cheap whiskey, John spent his days chasing adrenaline and his nights reminding everyone why bourbon should be its own food group. He lived fast, skied faster, and somehow managed to keep the rubber side down on his motorcycle—most of the time.
John rode from coast to coast more times than he could count (because he never actually counted), pausing only for gas, barbecue, and to argue politics with strangers in dive bars. A loyal friend, a loving family man, and a dedicated Fox News enthusiast, he was known for his strong opinions, stronger drinks, and the strongest grip on his throttle.
He leaves behind a family who adored him (sisters: Diane (Denny) Pick, Kathleen (Ron) Pessmeg, and Louise (Steve) Howard), a motorcycle that will never feel the same wind again, and a liquor cabinet that suddenly seems too full. In honor of his legacy, the family asks that you pour a glass of your finest (or cheapest) bourbon, argue about something trivial with a friend, and never, ever use the brakes too early on a downhill run.
John always said, “My life is better than your vacation.” Well, we know you’re out there, somewhere, either mastering those black diamond runs or riding full throttle into the next great adventure.
Keep the rubber side down and the skis pointed straight!
A Visitation will be held Friday, March 28, 2025 from 3:00-7:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a Panikhida Service at 6:30 PM. Funeral Service will be on Saturday, March 29th at 10:00 AM directly at Protection of the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church 8600 Grand Blvd, Merrillville, IN, with burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso. Celebration of Life Luncheon at the Fraternal Order of Eagles 805 Elm St, Valparaiso, following the burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Riley Children’s Hospital.
GUESTBOOK
We are very saddened by the loss of our neighbor and friend John. May you rest in peace after all your struggles. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Wonderful man. -Jim & Bernie Bilder
John was always tinkering with projects during the high school years. He enjoyed keeping busy. Rest in Peace John. -Ed Kosanke
My deepest sympathy to all of John’s family. John will be forever missed, as we, the Geezers know him and loved him. John, who put up my husband Jim’s plaque on 2/7/2017 will most likely join the other Geezers, Chris, Herbie and Bobby racing around in heaven to see who makes the best turns. Forever in my heart, -Rita Pech
John’s obituary is the finest and truest obituary I’ve ever read. Kudos to the writer (s). I already miss his laugh, his fine clothes, his willingness to help fix the problems ( both physical and mental), and his need for speed. He was a loyal and true friend, and a giving and loving uncle and family man. He was neat to a fault, precise in what he did, and had a twinkle in his eye when he tried to rile up unsuspecting friends or family . John is one in a million. I’m so glad to know him and it’s an honor to be on his friends list! Blessings to Mary Jo, Allison and Jesse and his sisters, neighbors and friends who were there for him. -Kathy Zarini
Brother John, We only got to be on a couple rides together, but I thoroughly enjoyed every moment that I spent in your company. God Bless and may you Rest In Peace. -Jeff Loftus
John, my buddy, my friend. Soar as high as you can and enjoy your flight home. I will cherish our memories of friendship and your beautiful smile. -Andrea Garcia
I am sorry to hear of John's passing. He was very hopeful issues would be beaten. It is wonderful that he so enjoyed his life. My condolences to the family in your loss and prayers are with you. -Orchid Stalbaum
I'm so sorry for your loss. I didn't know John but after reading his obituary, seems like I missed out on one hell of a guy. You all have my deepest sympathy. -Shawn Risner
John was a good friend of my Father, Bob, and a charter member of the famed Winter Park " Geezer Patrol" . My brother and I were fortunate to spend some ski time with "Indiana" over the past few years. Like our Dad, he skied fast with excellent form. I still question his full length " powder coat" but like Bob, he could ski the heck out of it. We will toast a good man on our next visit to the Fraser Valley. Peace be upon you and your Family Indy. -Jeffrey Harris Wilkins
Well written obituary, described our friend and union brother as best anyone could. The only thing they forgot to mention was his concern and involvement in the international brotherhood of electrical workers, IBEW local union 697. John could and would defend at length, the advantage of organized union work force. Our good friend will be greatly missed, we pray for comfort for his family. -Rich Sankowski, a union brother and friend
John was a great neighbor and Union Brother I will certainly miss all of our spirited conversations about World Events his skiing and bike trips until recent conversations about his declining health he will certainly be missed by many! Fly High Brother…. Our Deepest Condolences to Family, -Bob and Nancy Anadell
Our deepest sympathy to the ones in John’s life that will greatly miss his company whether it be a ride on the highways or on the ski hill plowing through the POWDER or racing down to see how fast he could go and to his close family that had spent great times and will have many memories Thank you John for providing your taxi service- it was greatly appreciated and your friendship will be greatly missed. -Tami and George Wellman
What a beautiful obituary!!! Explains John’! A great friend and a neighbor of ours for 6 years!! Our thoughts and prayers are wish the family!!! Rest in peace John!!! Ski, ride your bike and toast to a glass of bourbon, whiskey up in Heaven!!! Pain free! Always keep that wonderful smile!!! You sure will be missed!!! -Mark and Kathy Horvat
John will surely be missed here in his second home in Fraser, CO. Indiana John shared many a meal and celebrated holidays in his condo with me since 2006. His door was always opened to anyone who stopped by. So many fun filled days skiing at Winter Park and Mary Jane. Hiking in the Rocky Mountains in the summer months too. Happy hours and Super Bowl parties with the Geezer Ski Patrol were my favorites. He introduced me to so many friends from Wisconsin, Illinois, N. Carolina and even Australia. Loved by many. “Drive slow~ski fast” in Heaven. You were so special to me. Love, -Sue Fields
I had the privilege of having many conversations and sharing many great (s)miles with John at Victory Gatherings. I think the last time I saw John in person was at the Victory Gathering in Harrison, AR in 2023. I talked to him on the phone in 2024 but don't recall sharing any (s)miles that year - he was down with his back for part of it. John will truly be missed among the Victory Motorcycle Club community. -Joshua (Spyder-Man) Richardson
As one of his care team from HOPE ( Hematology Oncology Partners in Excellence) many years ago, I want to say what a joy it was to know John. He certainly brightened our office! I eventually moved from Indiana to Durango, Colorado & he still would call to keep in touch. A few years ago he even stopped in Durango with a friend and took my husband and I out to eat. What a guy! I'll miss his smile and his periodic phone calls! -Michelle McKibben
