John VanHook

It is with a very heavy heart that I share that my dad, John Taylor VanHook Jr., 75, passed away peacefully of natural causes. 

He was a long-time resident of El Segundo, CA and loved every minute of living there.Born and raised in Alton, IL, where the family were part owners of the local newspaper, John thrived in school and in all sports.He moved to El Segundo after graduating from Western Illinois University.After learning as much as he could about the community, he decided this was where he wanted to live.He involved himself immediately in the town, and after he married my mom in 1978, his first purchase was a house on Arena Street and then the drive-thru diary on the corner of Pine and Main.The years in El Segundo were spent on all of the athletic fields.He was a sports fanatic and loved watching me in every sport I tried. He spent hours with me on the softball field.He taught me how to play, how to win, how to lose, but most importantly, to never give up. He never missed a game or a practice.His efforts did not go unnoticed, and I went to college on a scholarship to play softball. 

After 30 years in El Segundo, he moved to Punta Gorda, FL, where he lived for many years.After taking ill, I moved him to Las Vegas, where I reside, so that I could be closer to him.We spent very special and quality time until his passing. 

He leaves behind his daughter, Rachel, his sister, Jane Singer and brother-in-law, Tom Singer from Mill Valley, CA and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was my mentor, my trainer, my teacher, but most of all my Dad.He will be missed by all who knew him.RIP Dad, with all who passed before you.You will be in my heart forever. 

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Alton City Cemetery.Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements.Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

Obit Provided By:
Gent Funeral Home