John Patrick Peach, 78, of Dwight died peacefully November 3, 2020 in his home surrounded by loved ones. A celebration of life party will be held at a later date. Duffy – Baier – Snedecor Funeral Home, Pontiac, is in charge of arrangements. John was born to William and Mabel Peach on September 30, 1942 in O’Fallon, Illinois. He was the second youngest of 10 children. He told many stories of growing up on the farm, working and playing hard with his beloved brothers and sisters, to whom he remained close. He married the love of his life, Ina Myers, on April 15, 1965. A few weeks later he left to serve his country in the Vietnam War, and in July of the same year, received a telegraph stating that his first daughter was born. When he returned from the war he worked as a farmhand and a shade tree mechanic. Working on old cars or anything mechanical was a passion of his. He could and would FIX ANYTHING. In 1970, he moved his family, which now included a second daughter born in 1969, to Dwight, IL. He began working at RR Donnelley and Sons in the maintenance department and would retire from there 35 years later. After retirement, he worked for the Mazon School District. During those years, he also played Santa Claus for many school functions and holiday parties. He was the perfect Santa, rosy cheeks and a big white beard that he encouraged the children to tug on. After he REALLY retired, he and his wife grew many varieties of fruits and vegetables and sold them at the local farmers market. His life was his family, his friends, and his small farm. He loved them all unconditionally. He is survived by his wife, Ina; two daughters: Patty (Tony) Noonan of Pontiac, IL and Debbie (Mitch Parks) Peach of Sumter, SC; grandchildren: Ryley (Lexus) Christoff, Tyson (Katie Belisle) Christoff; Jack Noonan, Josie Noonan, and Payton Christoff; great-grandchildren: Kayne, Emma, Ethan, Cam and Evelyn; eight siblings; and lots of nieces and nephews. He was so proud of all of them. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Virginia Fulford. He will be missed by many. In honor of John’s memory, the family asks that anyone wishing to give a memorial, please “pay it forward” to someone in need. Online condolences may be made to the family at: duffyfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.