John Colvin was born very early the morning of June 26, 1960. His parents (Eleanor and Clifford) named him John after his paternal grandfather (from Ireland) and his maternal grandfather Frederick (from Norway). His siblings (Bruce, Carolyn, Linda, and Doug) eagerly welcomed John! John’s family had moved to a new house the day before so a new brother in a new house was a reason for celebration!

John spent his early years enjoying family trips around Nebraska, and to Oklahoma and Michigan, playing with his brothers and sisters when he joined them to go swimming, playing pick-up football games, playing endless summer games of hide-and-seek, tossing baseballs, and shooting hoops. Amidst four vocal siblings, he learned to be independent, to make his own choices, and to have a voice. At his parents’ insistence, he was included in all family activities. All Colvins were sports fans to a fault, so John quickly acquired his passion for sports, notably the Huskers as well as the Oklahoma Sooners, Dallas Cowboys, and the Kansas City Chiefs. And John loved attending live sporting events: John attended all his brother’s football games, several Nebraska football games, baseball games in KC, and WWE wrestling with the APACE Wrestling Club. He was destined to become one of the most ardent sports fans!

Because of his parents’ advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities, he was able to attend and graduate from Educational Service Unit 5 (Beatrice) and soon joined Region 5 in Crete—now the APACE workshop. To say that he loved attending the workshop is an understatement! The ‘Shop’ and the terrific and patient APACE staff allowed him a community of treasured friends, both the safety and freedom of local connections, and many rewarding opportunities so he could continue to learn and experience his world. His APACE house parents taught him to fish, to work and live with others, to cut wood, camp out, eat cherry pie, and enjoy Nebraska’s wonderful public lands. In turn, he shared with others his love of sports and ‘eating out’, giggles that regularly turned to laughter, Reese’s Pieces, dancing to Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen, sunglasses, a sunny day, and dogs.

John was everyone’s friend and valued people who took the time to smile and say hi. He was deeply loyal to people who sought to understand him and to offer friendship. The best start to any day is to see John Colvin’s great smile! John was a teacher for all and embodied what it meant to be a Nebraskan with his kindness and love. He helped us understand what developmental disabilities are and are not! We learned that one’s potential and perseverance is best understood when love, support, and patience frame our efforts. As we note our deep sadness at John’s passing on April 9, 2026, he would remind us to imagine him as one his favorite movie heroes—Rocky climbing the steps with arms raised in triumph!

Services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Grace United Methodist Church in Crete. Everyone attending is invited to wear red or Husker attire. Viewing will take place 1 hour prior to the services.

Simple Gifts (by Aaron Copeland) 

'Tis the gift to be simple 

'Tis the gift to be free

 'Tis the gift to come down 

Where you ought to be. 

And when we find ourselves 

In the place just right 

'Twill be in the valley 

Of love and delight