John Taft

John Steven Taft, age 70, of Altoona, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 29, 2025, with his family lovingly by his side. Born on January 27, 1955, in Milwaukee, WI, he was the son of the late Donald and Helen Taft.

John lived a life defined by devotion-devotion to the people he loved, to the passions that energized him, and to the values that guided him. His family was the heart of everything he did. He was never happier than when cheering from the sidelines, watching his children compete, or sharing quiet, joy-filled moments with his grandchildren. His presence-warm, steady, and always encouraging-was a constant source of strength for those who knew and loved him.

Sports were woven into John's life from an early age. His passion for sports ran deeper than the games themselves; he believed wholeheartedly in the lessons they offered-discipline, teamwork, perseverance, humility, and the grit it takes to rise after a fall. His love for race cars, passed down from his father and brothers, fueled countless memories and conversations.

Whether golfing, fishing, attending Formula 1 Grand Prix with his son, watching MMA, hiking, biking, participating in the Burrito Union Triathlon in Duluth, MN, or playing in basketball and softball leagues, he embraced every moment with determination and a full heart, giving everything he had on every field, trail, and path he rode, and in every life he touched.

His dedication to athletics extended far beyond his own pursuits. John was especially proud to have played a role alongside other parents in supporting and helping establish a high school girls hockey team, ensuring that young women in the community had opportunities to learn, compete, and discover their own strength through the game they loved.

Professionally, John built a respected career as a sales manager in the heavy-duty trucking industry. He retired in 2025 from Mountain West Truck Center in Utah, where he served with dedication and pride. Known for his integrity, humor, and genuine care for others, he formed relationships that transcended business and became lifelong friendships. His work reflected the same principles that shaped his life: loyalty, perseverance, and the belief that people matter most.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 33 years, Brittany; his children, Alexander (Ashley Fryk), Zachary, Ana (Maxwell) Sebesta, and Sophia (Hunter) Beachler; and his cherished grandchildren-Scarlett, Brooklyn, Hendrix, Noa, Zoe, and Miley John, his namesake-each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his brothers, Ken (Kathy) and Don (Nancy); his mother-in-law, Susan Reichard (Al Johnson); his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Steve (Shelley) Reichard, Stacey (Lynn) Zook, and Brett (Malissa Dampier) Reichard; and nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly: Ken Jr., Sasha, Lauren, Ben, Bizzy, Mallory, Marcy, Chasity, Josh, Charlie, Russell, Otto, and 11 great-nieces and nephews. His love extended to all his nieces and nephews, including those from his previous marriage, each of whom he held dear. John is also survived by his former spouse, Donna Taft, mother of his children Alexander and Zachary, and her husband, Paul Donnelly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Donna Kay Taft, his father-in-law Gary Reichard, and his nephew Derek Taft.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Timothy Burns and The Mayo Cancer Center Team, Mayo Home Health Team, St. Croix Hospice caregivers, and our incredible family and friends who all showed John so much love and support.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Christ Church Cathedral, 510 South Farwell Street, Eau Claire, WI 54701. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. (noon) until the time of service.

The Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.cremationsociety-wi.com/.