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John McCarrel

Date Of Birth: October 2, 1957
Date Of Death: January 5, 2009

John Kevin McCarrel 51, Indianapolis, passed away January 5th 2009. He was born October 2nd 1957 in Beech Grove, Indiana. He was the son of Gerald McCarrel now of North Port, Florida and Patricia Van Winkle Mills (deceased) of Indianapolis. He was the devoted husband of Pamela Fay (Ott) McCarrel; they recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. He was the loving father of Jordan Kevin McCarrel and Andrea Elizabeth McCarrel.John is survived by his wife and children, brother, Jeff (Wendy) McCarrel of Indianapolis, sisters, Bridget (John) Buchanan of Cincinnati, Cecilia (Nelson) Ford of Evansville, Moira Sommers (Alex Munroe) of Indianapolis and life long friends Bob Tolbert and Doug Paynter, several nieces and nephews, and extended family and friends.John was the Vice President of Proportion Air in McCordsville. His job allowed him to travel extensively and he established deep friendships in the U.S. and abroad. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any monetary donations to be sent to Lawrence Central High School, LCPAA – c/o Matt James – Show Choir Orlando Trip Scholarship Fund, 7300 East 56th Street, Indpls, IN 46226 Visitation will be Friday, Jan 9 4 until 8 p.m. at Harry W. Moore Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Road. Services will be Saturday Jan 10 at 11 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 North Meridian Street. Understanding John As I try to make sense of something of this magnitude, I think about John and what could have brought him to this point. For those who saw him in his last days, he was, as everyone has repeatedly said, “normal”. John spent his high school years at the Latin School with plans on entering the priesthood. After time at St. Meinrad, John chose a different path, and although he did not become a priest, his life was still devoted to helping others. When a person first met John, they would always state that he was quiet. Some people perceived him as stand-offish, while others simply could not figure him out. Once you got to know John, however, he had quite a bit to say. He was a unique combination of wit, logic, level-headedness, and always exuded a strong sense fairness. John’s desire to help others was his best trait. He was constantly going to fix someone’s leaking pipes, broken furnaces, sit at hospital bedsides, deliver generators during power outages, lend an ear, or talk someone through a bad divorce. John never met a child that he did not love, 100%, open heartedly, and unconditionally. Kids and teenagers have filled our house for 23 years and John welcomed them all. John was famous for cooking them anything that they wanted to eat, made to order, and as they all know, he was an excellent cook. Every single one of them was so very special to him; he worked to find a common bond with each of them and made sure that they all felt loved and welcome in our home. John’s greatest joy was his children, Jordan and Andrea. John, himself a thespian, was so proud of their accomplishments in Performing Arts. I hope that they will continue to amaze him.I guess that when you give so constantly and so much of yourself, there is very little left over. John, who was so willing to help others, would never ask for help if he needed it. Know that he would never intentionally hurt anyone, but apparently under all of the smiles, goodwill, and empathy, John was hurting. We will never know the reason, we will never understand. During these last few days, as I grapple for answers, I just find myself thankful for the children that he gave me, grateful for the good that he has done in this world, and humbled by the fact that through his guidance, I have become a better person.

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  1. For John:
    “Fear no more the heat of the sun,
    Nor the furious winter rages,
    Thou thy worldy task has done.
    Home art gone, and taken all thy wages.
    Golden lads and girls all must,
    As chimney-sweepers come to dust.

    Fear no more the frown of the great,
    Thou art past the tyrant’s stroke,
    Care no more to clothe and eat,
    To thee the reed is as the oak,
    The sceptre, learning, physic must
    All follow this and come to dust.

    Fear no more the lightening flash,
    Nor the all-dreaded thunder-stone,
    Fear not slander, censure rash.
    Thou has finished joy and moan.
    All lovers young, all lovers must,
    Consign to thee and come to dust.

    No exorciser harm thee.
    Nor no witchcraft charm thee.
    Ghost unlaid forbear thee.
    Nothing ill come near thee.
    Quiet consummation have,
    And renowned be thy grave.”

    Dear Pam—I’m Debbie’s sister and I teach Shakespeare at IUPUI. These are some of his best words and I hope they bring you comfort now–when you need it most.

  2. Pam and family,
    I am so deeply sorry for this horrible loss. Pam, I love you to death, and will be praying for you, Jordan, and Andrea through this.
    Kristen

  3. Dear Pam, Jordan, Andrea, and extended family,
    We are so deeply sadden by the passing of John. Words of comfort seem hard to find outside of that we loved John Kevin and we love you. Know that you are in our prayers, thoughts, and hearts.
    Love, Cecilia, Nelson and Connor

  4. Pam, Andrea and Jordan,
    We love you so much and grieve with you. We are so grateful for your friendship and the time we had with John. The loss is so huge because of the wonderful man he was. May the peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding be yours. Love, The Mortons…Blake, Jeanne, Julia, Madeline and Brandon

  5. The Rain Check Bar was a meeting place for many Logo 7 employees back in the day, and I was honored to meet and enjoy the company of all of them. John was always a welcome member of the “Logo Gang”, always upbeat, and his company was enjoyed by many. I am sure that as stories are traded upon his passing, he will be remembered as a classic “Good Guy”. My best thoughts go to the McCarrel family. John will be remembered fondly. Many photos of the old days with John will now bring a sad smile.

  6. I have worked with John for 14 years & he has always treated me like his best friend. He was never too busy to lend a hand wherever & whenever needed. One fond memory that I have is whenever I would see him coming at work I would hold the door open for him – but it never failed, he would always stop & insist I walk through first. Always the gentleman and one of the best men I’ve known -someone I looked up to and was fortunate to call my friend. He will be unbelievably missed by many and especially our family at Proportion-Air. Pamela, Jordan, and Andrea, I can only give you my blessings and wish you strength. I wish the same for the rest of John’s family as well as the thousands of friends he has made in his travels. We have lost a great man but I believe, without a doubt, that he enriched every life he came in contact with and that I am one of many. God bless and I love you John.

  7. My sincere condolences on behalf of John’s brother graduates of the Latin School of Indianapolis.

    Eternal rest grant to him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen

    Tim Kelly
    LSI 1977

  8. What a terrible loss. An especially deep loss for people who knew him…a unique individual who obviously touched more lives than even he could have ever imagined.

    I will miss him dearly.

    Rest in peace, John.

  9. Pam and Family,

    Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Know that our prayers are with you and that God will always be with you.

  10. Sorry to hear of your loss,John was a good man.He will be deeply missed

  11. This has affected me on many levels. This man was a mentor, a colleague and most of all a friend. He saw in me things that I did not see in myself. Pam, hold your children close and know that your husband was one of the few decent really decent people in this world. Missed? Without question.

  12. When I think of John,I think of his strength and spirituality the most.He was very much respected by all that knew him and will be greatly missed.
    Sharon

  13. Pam, I am so overcome with sadness for you and the kids. My prays and thoughts are with you during this time of great need>

  14. I worked with John, many years ago, at Logo. He was such a nice person, and always had a smile on his face. I am so sorry for his family, and his many friends. May he be in peace, in heaven.

  15. Pam,
    I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    Tracy Hess

  16. We pray that the mercy of God be granted to John and His comfort to John’s family, brothers and sisters, friends and to all those left behind. Until we meet again in heaven, we will continue to pray for his soul.

    With love and great sorrow, John and Nancy

  17. Pam, Jordan, Andrea,
    John was one of the greatest mentors and freind a young salesman could have ever met. I cherish the memories of our travels and time at work together. He will not be forgotten. My prayers and sympahty go out to you all.

  18. Our deepest sympathy to the family, our heart & prayers go out to you.

  19. I would like to extend my deepest regrets to the Family of John and hold you in our prayers. I will always remember John as a good and fair man. I know he was loved and appreciated by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

  20. Pam and Andrea and Jordan, my heart goes out to you and your family for this untimely loss. My thoughts and prayers are directed to you, your family and John. May God Bless You All!

  21. John was an inspiration to everyone he came into contact with and I was blessed to be one those poeple. He helped me through some tough times and gave me hope when I thought there was none. He will always be in my thoughts and prayers as well as his family and friends. I will miss him dearly…

  22. I worked for John at Logo 7 and have many memories of him. He was always cheerful and always kind and caring. He will be missed. My sincere sympathy to your family.

  23. Pam and family,
    The news of Johns death floored me…I could not be sorrier for you and your children for this is a loss of a lifetime. I pray you all find peace but know it will be a long time. Stay strong and find strenth in each other and the family and friends around you. You are not alone in your greif please know that. All my love and prayers, Reva

  24. Pam,
    To put it simply, I am sorry for your loss. I know it’s not more, but just know my heart hurts for you. Please know you are in my prayers and will continue to be in my thoughts.
    -Megan

  25. Pam, our thoughts and prayers are with you….

    copper@copp.ws

  26. So sorry for your loss,We all lost a great Mentor!

  27. Pamela, and my dearest Jordan and Andrea
    We brought the little ones up together, they are entwined in a way we really cannot comprehend. And so, the same, our friendship…you were there for me when I almost lost Matthew. How could I have muddled through it without you? I am here for you now and always. I love you, I loved John, and your children are my children.

  28. John was such a kind and generous man. We have lost a great friend and mentor. My prayers are with you all.

  29. Pam,

    I am sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your children in my prayers.

    Jenni Stedman

  30. John was a good man. Very sad to see him pass.
    Learned a lot from John at the old Logo 7. My sincere condolences to the family.

  31. A wonderful man to my son.
    How can I convince him that you are on the other side – the wonderful side of eternity…

  32. I had the priveledge and pleasure of working with John for many years at Logo. We all enjoyed many good times at the Raincheck. John will be missed.

    My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May your faith bring you peace.

    Kindest Regards.
    Carol Valone

  33. Jeff,
    You and your entire family are in my prayers.
    God Bless
    RHonda Hatcher-Pullen

  34. John,
    You were by far the greatest man we have ever known. The greatest friend a man could ever have. I will miss the times hunting and fishing with you but i know you will be there with me and in my heart. Our deepest symphany to Pam, Jordan, and Andrea. If you ever need anything please don’t hesitate to ask. Anything! John, We love you and will miss you greatly!!!

  35. You were there.
    Through good times and bad times You were there.

    You were always there for me and as you were always there for others when anything was needed,no matter what it was.YOU WERE THERE. You are going to well missed by hundreds upon hundreds of people maybe even thousands whom have been in your presence and touched by your givingness. No one could ever fill your shoes. You are the Man. I love you man.As many times you said I am the Greatest, I believe it you are the Greatest. The Greatest at everything,Dam good cook too. You were always there,even when I hit the deer with the Van and punched the windshield in the suburban.You were always there.I am going to miss you so much. I love you John Mac Daddy McCarrel.

  36. Thaks for everything, you will be saddly missed.

  37. john i will miss you very much

  38. Dear Pam and family,

    I worked with John at Logo 7 many years ago. Shared some fun times @ work and the Rain Check as well.

    I would like to express my deepest symapathy to the family and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of need.

    Nancy & Steve Skillman

  39. To the family of John, I am so sorry for your loss, my prayers are with you all.
    Love Patty B.

  40. Thinking of you at this difficult time. You will be in my prayers.

    Susan

  41. I have alot of wonderful memories of John. I will always cherish my times enjoying John’s conversation. I first met John as being a co-owner of the Raincheck Bar and more recently at local festivals etc. John will certaainly be missed.
    My deepest condolences to the family and freinds of John.

  42. John, my brother, you never met a man that was not your friend. You will be missed and never forgotten.

    Pam, Jordan and Andrea, I love you.

  43. Jeff,
    I am sorry to hear about the loss of your brother, John. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

  44. Dear Pam,
    Today I was so sorry to hear of your husband’s death. I hope you find comfort and peace as you work through your grief and daily living.
    Many of the nurses at work are praying for your family. As I will be too.

  45. Dear Pam, I used to work for your father at National License and got to know you & your family very well. I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and want you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Sincerely, Julie (Wray) Ferrell
    e-mail rexjulie@embarqmail.com

  46. I was a classmate of John’s at Latin School. My deepest sympathy and my prayers are with you as you go through these tough times.

    God Bless you all,
    Pat Starling
    Latin School ’75

  47. Pamela, Jordan Andrea, Our very deepest sympathy on the loss of John. He was more than a business colleague he was a friend we will miss very much. John will be in our prayers as will you in this very difficult time. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. (May his loyal soul be at the right hand of God) From Aidan Una and Michaela Davy.

  48. Jeff and Cecelia,

    Hang in there. There will be brighter days ahead. All of our grade school and high school contemporaries remember John as a gentle man who was friendly and had a good heart.

    MG
    Immediate Past President
    SJA Men’s Club

  49. I am so sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
    Judy Chroniak

  50. I worked with John for many years helping him with his computer systems. That was the only time John ever asked for help. He always offered a helping hand and was willing to bend over backwards to do so. I will miss him everyday for the rest of my life. May God bless John and his entire family.

  51. To the McCarrel family…I am so sorry for your loss. Like so many others, I worked with John at Logo 7. He was a pleasure to know; the line at the funeral home is a true testament to how many lives he touched.

    Rest in Peace, John.

  52. My deepest condolences to all who knew and loved John. While there are no words to offer at a time such as this that would soften the difficulty of the experience, please know that my family and I will be praying for you all. Trust in the Lord –

    John and Susan Gardner, son of George and Rose Gardner of Indianapolis

  53. Pam and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss and hard times you are all going through. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
    Valerie

  54. Please know that the McCarrel and Mills families are in our daily prayers during this very sad and trying time.

    So sorry we could not be at either the calling or funeral.
    Al & Molly Seidel

  55. To the McCarrel family:
    We were shocked to hear about John’s death. It was so unexpected.
    We lost a great business friend and we will miss him very very much!
    With deepest sympathy from us all.
    Ter Horst B.V. Cor Tabak
    ProportionAir distributor in The Netherlands.

  56. John was a good friend and a great help to me over the years working with Proportion Air. He will be missed.
    My thoughts are with his family. May John rest in peace

  57. To the McCarrel family, my prayers go out to you all.

    Fred Cozza

  58. Jordan,
    Dean and I never had a chance to meet or get to know your father but I can tell you this, if children are a reflection of their parents your father must have been a great man. You and your family continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

  59. Dear Pam,

    I was stunned and saddened when I was told that John had passed away. I am so very sorry for you, Jordan, and Andrea. My heart goes out to the three of you and all of your extended family.

    Although the relationship I shared with John began in business, it was the personal relationship that John naturally cultivated in everyone that eventually dominated our interactions with one another. I was very fond of John, and I will never forget him. I admired him for his knowledge, his work ethic, and his tenacity. As a mentor to me in the early stages of my career, I relished in his praise of me, and I languished in his disappointment. John’s insights, his thoughts, and his opinions mattered greatly to me, and I welcomed them as gifts. How fortunate I am to have known him.

    I know that John spent many days and nights away from his home and family due to his business responsibilities. During those times when he was working with me, John always included an update on you and the kids. He was a proud husband to his wife and father to his son and his daughter.

    Thank you so much for sharing him with me and so many others over the years. Like all those who were touched by him, I will miss him dearly.

    Sincerely,

    Michael J. Radosevic

  60. To: The McCarrel Family:

    May God help you thru this difficult time. You now know each of you have a piece of your heart already in Heaven.

    I was a long-time friend of Pat Mills, John’s mother. I was stunned at John’s passing. Even though I did not know John personally, I had often heard Pat speak very proudly about all of her family. I know there will be welcoming arms in heaven open for John.

    God Bless you all!

    Betty and Carl Palmer (Betty)

  61. “All of us are born for a reason, but all of us don’t discover why. Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It’s what you do for others.” Danny Thomas Thanks John!!!! 🙂

  62. Mr. John,
    You were always the nice guy, the dependable guy, the right guy, the kind guy. The guy our whole family looked up to. I know we didn-¦t see each other much in recent years but you will always be my first brother-in-law and of course you will always be Mr. John to me. Miss You Man, Cathy

  63. I miss you my friend…

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