John E. Novotny

TSgt John E. Novotny passed away February 12, 2025 in Minneapolis. He was born in Plainfield on May 22, 1935 to Grace (Riggs) and Joseph Novotny. John was a 1953 graduate from Tri-County HS where he played football, basketball and baseball.

John joined the Air Force in 1955. He married Hazel Schubert in 1956. They welcomed two beautiful daughters; Brenda in 1957 and Belinda in 1967. He was stationed in 6 states as well as Pakistan, Germany, and England. After 21 years in the service, John retired and moved back to Plainfield. He began as shop manager at DelMonte Corp where he also worked for 21 years.

John enjoyed feeding the birds, star gazing, cheering for the Packers, and supporting the Highground Memorial in Neillsville, WI. He especially loved going to the cabin in Minnesota with his family every summer. John was a wonderful grandpa to two lively girls, Zoey and Kyrie who loved him dearly and will miss him greatly.

His family will always remember his witty poems and jokes, and the cheese curds, Kringle, and Amish hand pies that he brought to MN for every visit. As the “oldest man” in Plainfield, he touched many lives with his fiery spirit and hopefully brought a smile to all their faces.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel, in 2018. He is survived by Brenda, Belinda, Zoey, and Kyrie as well as many friends.

The visitation will be March 8, 2025 from 9:30 to 11. Celebration of Life will be from 11 to 12 with a luncheon to follow at the Plainfield Community Center. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Plainfield Library or the Highground.