John “Neeko” Edward McKee Sr., 80, of Chesterton, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Franciscan Health Michigan City surrounded by family. He was born on July 30, 1945, in Washington, PA, to the late Peter Thomas and Mary Ann (Luckjohn) McKee. On July 10, 1965, in Burgettestown, PA, John married the love of his life, Joan Carole Bittner.

John is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joan Carole McKee; children, John Jr. (Justine) McKee, Michael (Raquel) McKee, and Kristina McKee (Jonathan); grandchildren, Mallory (Jake), John III, Kaitlynn (Tracy), Dominic (Ella), Hunter, and Tyler; great-grandchildren, Everett and Eli; siblings, Maryann Dhayer, Shelby Jean Huber, and Joseph (Barbara Ann) McKee; numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews; and many friends.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his siblings, Peter McKee Jr., and Pamela Riggins.

John proudly worked as a millwright for Bethlehem Steel for over 36 years, retiring in 2003. He was also a member of the Steelworkers 6787 Union in Burns Harbor.

In his younger years, John was a notorious high school football player and wrestler back in Burgettestown, PA. He was a phenomenal running back, setting various records in his day that many still talk about in the present.

John was an avid sportsman who especially loved hunting and fishing. He cherished every opportunity to share those passions with his family, creating countless memories that his loved ones will hold close for years to come.

John, also affectionately known as Pap, will best be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was the life of the party, a man who never met a stranger, and someone who took great pride in his word. His generous spirit, his laughter, and the joy he brought into the lives of others will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In accordance with John’s wishes, cremation has been chosen. Calumet Park Funeral Chapel of Hobart/Portage has been entrusted with his arrangements.