John Robert Carson

John Robert Carson, age 80 of Mishawaka, passed away with his family by his side on Friday, July 31, 2026. John was born May 10, 1946, in South Bend, Indiana to the late John Robert and Doris Marie (Jewel) Carson. John was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1964 and later attended Bethel University. John enlisted in the US Navy during the Vietnam War and served honorably from 1967 until his honorable release from duty in 1971. On November 28, 1970, he married Jeanette Blair Russell Sneddon in Mishawaka. Together, they celebrated over 55 years of love, laughter and raising their family.

John is survived by his wife Jeanette and their daughters Jennifer Watchorn and her husband Steve and Amy Riffle and her husband Maynard. Surviving as well are 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother Kitrick “Kit” Carson.

John was employed for over 35 years as a graphic designer with Ave Maria Press at the University of Notre Dame before his retirement at the age of 67. In his spare time, he enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles and reading novels by Stephen King, Dean Koontz and Michale Connely. He also loved spending time on campus at the University of Notre Dame.

John was a talented musician and served as the church organist and pianist for over 50 years, starting at Immanuel Baptist Church at the age of 15 and later at St. Andrews Church of Christ for more than 25 years. Over those years, John played for numerous church services, special events, and weddings.

Visitation will be held two hours prior to the 6:00 PM memorial service on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka. Pastor Don Carroll will officiate, and military honors for John will follow the service.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of John’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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