John Wesley Canaday, Sr.

John Wesley Canaday, Sr. of La Junta, Colorado, went to be with the Lord on Friday, October 24, 2025. He passed peacefully in his sleep, joyful and excited to marry his love, Anita Kuhn.

Born in Orangeburg, South Carolina, on January 28, 1953, to Thomas and Rachel (Deputy) Canaday. John proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for nine years as an electrician in Strategic Air Command, earning multiple medals and commendations, including 1976 Airman of the Year. While serving, he met and married Debbie Babb, and together they traveled the world with the Air Force—living in Germany, Arizona, and Mississippi—before settling in La Junta to raise their family.

A hardworking and humble man, John worked in HVAC, electrical, and plant maintenance, eventually becoming Plant Manager of the local pickle plant. He later served as Maintenance Facility Manager for La Junta Public Schools and remained active in his community as a handyman and caretaker for widows.

John is survived by his children Leah Meister, John Canaday Jr. (Tiffany), and Dr. Nathan Canaday (Mallory); his grandchildren Danielle, Gavvain, Andi, David, Caleb, and Nora; his fiancée, Anita Kuhn, and her extended family; sister Kathy Russell (Ronnie); and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Debbie, his brothers Tommy and Bobby, and his parents, Thomas and Rachel Canaday.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.at Peacock Memorial Chapel in La Junta. Funeral Service will be held Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at First Church of the Nazarene in La Junta with Pastor Tim Muth of Valley Community Church officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make your gift to AWANAS/Camp Salvation at Valley Community Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.PeacockFH.com. Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.