John A. Hackworthy, 90
John Alan Hackworthy, 90, of Spencer, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Mill Pond Health Campus in Greencastle, Indiana.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 15, 1936, John was the son of Alan and Theresa (Umhoefer) Hackworthy. He graduated from Edgewood High School in Madison, Wisconsin and was a 1962 graduate of Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. John served in the United States Army. On September 5, 1964, he married the love of his life Cynthia “Cindy” Scidmore. They built a life together that lasted 59 years.
John moved to Spencer in 1963 and took ownership of Stello Products, which he operated until his retirement in 2007. After retiring, John sold Stello Products to his son-in-law Todd Zellers and daughter Deb keeping his legacy in the family. He continued to work on special projects for the company well after "retiring".
John was a friend to everyone. His bellowing laugh, infectious whistle, ability to tell a joke or a story was loved by all. He was invested in everyone he met, asked questions intently about their life and remembered every detail. A devoted family man, he raved about his children, children's spouses, and grandchildren's career, academic and athletic accomplishments.
An avid sports fan, John enjoyed cheering for Indiana University basketball and football, the Green Bay Packers, and the Atlanta Braves. He also proudly supported the DePauw University volleyball team, coached by his daughter, Deb. Over the years, he attended numerous Super Bowls and NCAA Final Four events. Above all, he treasured watching his grandchildren participate in their sporting events. He also enjoyed golfing, cooking, and trips to the casino.
John’s legacy of service touched many parts of the Spencer and Owen County communities. He was a founding member of St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Spencer, and his commitment to faith, family, and community remained central to his life. He served on the Owen County Community Foundation board for 10 years and was a 30-year member and past chairman of the Owen County IU Varsity Club. His leadership with the YMCA included serving as chief fundraising officer, treasurer, and president of its board of directors.
He also served as president of the Spencer Chamber of Commerce, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and the Spencer Exchange Club, and was honored as Owen County Citizen of the Year. He was a member of the Spencer American Legion and VFW, a trustee of the Spencer Moose Lodge, and a member of the Spencer Town Board from 1967 to 1971.
John’s dedication extended to his work as Owen County chairman of the Red Cross, a fundraiser for the Boy Scouts, Owen County’s representative on the Bloomington Hospital Board, and a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor. Through SCORE, he helped mentor new businesses in Owen County.
His enthusiasm for local athletics was equally enduring. In the 1960s, he led fundraising efforts to establish the Owen Valley High School football program. He volunteered as the clock operator for OVHS basketball for 30 years and also served as a football handler for the OVHS football team.
John is survived by his daughters, Susan (Tony) Williams, Deb (Todd) Zellers, and Amy (Brian) Stephenson; his grandchildren, John (Rachel) Williams, Joe Williams, Anna Zellers, Ben Zellers, Emily Paul, and Alex Paul; and his great-granddaughter, Ruby Lynn Williams.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Cindy; and his brother, David Hackworthy.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home of Walton Funeral Service, Inc., 105 N. Montgomery Street, Spencer, Indiana 47460.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 300 W. Hillside, Spencer, Indiana 47460. Additional visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
Entombment will follow at Chambersville Cemetery in Spencer.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Hackworthy Family Community Grant Fund at the Owen County Community Foundation or to St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Spencer.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.westparrishpedigo.com.
