Dr. John W. Hughes

Dr. John Wayne Hughes, age 86, passed away in his sleep on February 16, 2026, in Kewanee, Illinois. He was born on October 10, 1939, in LaFayette, Illinois. A physician, veteran, father, and grandfather, Dr. Hughes lived a life defined by service to country, his patients, and his family.

Dr. Hughes earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Blackburn College and went on to receive his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He served honorably in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War as a field surgeon, providing care under demanding conditions. Following his military service, he dedicated nearly three decades to the practice of orthopedic surgery in Marshalltown, Iowa. In retirement, he returned to Kewanee, Illinois, a place he called home.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Ann Hughes; his parents Raymond and Bertha Hughes; his brother, Raymond Hadley Hughes; and his sisters Julia Helen Watson and Norma Hughes. He is survived by his brother Clarence “Pete” Hughes; four sons, Peter, Jonathan (Kam), Joseph (Laura), and Samuel (Kathy); and his five grandchildren, Zachary, Ian, Hadley, Jacob, and Gabriel.

Dr. Hughes’ passions included spending time with family, playing golf, and reading. He leaves a legacy in lives touched through medicine, service, and friendship.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, April 3 at Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Private inurnment will follow at LaFayette Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Kewanee Veterans Council. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is assisting the family with arrangements.

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