John Linley Meeker, 82, passed away June 12, 2026, at Diversicare of Hutchinson. He was born June 11, 1944, in Larned, KS, to Frank Linsley and Lucille Lula (Steadman) Meeker.

For most of his life, John worked as a welder for Collins Bus Corporation. For over 20 years, John also served as a certified safety firearms instructor for the state of Kansas, showcasing not only his talent, but his passion for guns.

John enjoyed the outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, shooting his guns, or barbecuing, John thrived outside. He found joy in soap box car racing, spending time working with his hands, eating, coloring, and adding to his extensive collection of guns. Though, his most cherished moments were those spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On February 13, 1982, he married Marcella Lucille Novak, in Great Bend, KS. They shared over 44 years of marriage, prior to her death on December 19, 2021.

John is survived by: his sons, Karl (Renee) Heim of Luray, KS, Kevin (Elizabeth) Heim of Mulvane, KS, and Troy Heim of Hutchinson, KS; sister, Cindy Perez of Larned, KS; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Marcella; brothers, Robert and Roger; and sister, Judy.

Cremation has taken place. Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery, 1208 N. College St., Winfield, KS, with military honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. the same day at Hope Church, 1701 N. Main, Hutchinson. Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.