John David Nestleroad, 59, passed away suddenly on the morning of November 23, 2019. He was born on January 7, 1960, in Olney, Illinois, to his parents James and Susan Nestleroad. On May 3, 1986, he married Malinda Rich.
John spent all his youth in Martinsville, graduating from Martinsville High School in 1978. He was very active in the MCHS sports program; playing football, basketball and baseball. His most proud moment came when he was quarterback (#10) for the Bluestreaks football team, with an undefeated season.
With John’s love of sports, he chose to share his talents and coach VYO football. He coached Collin’s 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade team. He had a strong bond with the boys he coached and this bond continued as the boys went into high school.
Following high school, John attended Lincoln Trail College and Indiana University, with a major in Geology and minor in Spanish. This led to his first job in Houston, Texas, and 34 year career with Exxon/Mobil. Shortly after John moved to Houston, he proposed to his sweetheart, Malinda. They were married, and began their lives together. Their family expanded with the birth of their daughter Sydnie on October 7,1994, and son, Collin on August 16, 1996. After 15 years of living away, John decided to take advantage of a transfer opportunity and moved back to Illinois. John and family became established in the Vandalia community and it was there he planned to end his working career and retire on January 7, 2020.
John is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Malinda, of Vandalia; daughter, Sydnie of Vandalia; son, Collin of
Edwardsville; mother Sue Nestleroad of Martinsville; brother, James Nestleroad of Marshall; mother and father-in-law, Billy Wayne and Iona Rich; brother-in-law, Andy Rich; sisters-in-law, Debbie York and Diane Nestleroad; nephews Evan Nestleroad, Jeremy and Tad Hewlett and Cody Rich; and nieces Ashely Hardiman and Payton Rich. He was preceded in death by his father, and brother, Matthew.
John enjoyed life and cherished his many friends. He stayed in contact with many of his childhood friends, classmates, coaches and co-workers, both past and present. However, John’s greatest joy in life was his family, especially Sydnie and Collin. They filled his heart with joy.
John will always be remembered for being a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. So many people have been blessed knowing and having John in their lives.
In honoring John’s wishes, cremation has been chosen, and there will be no formal services.
