John Matthew Rockwell, 61, passed away on Thursday, July 30th, 2026 in Wichita, Kansas.

He was born in Los Angeles, California  to Helen Ann Blewett and Kenneth Jeffrey Rockwell.

John joined Fowler Games and traveled across the states running water races, basketball games and many food concessions for 25 yrs at many State Fairs and other venues. During Kansas State Fair in 2012 he met Janice Goodhew and decided to leave the fair life behind. He then worked for DHL for 5 years as a driver and various other employments in between while adjusting to a one town life. Janice and John were wed in August of 2017 in Valley Center, Kansas.

John enjoyed many things but the most important dream of his was becoming a Harley owner, he loved his bike and the wind in his hair. He drove his Harley all over Wichita, Hutchinson and other nearby towns. He loved sending off fireworks and being the life of the party and center of attention. John’s love of animals led him to his most unexpected pleasure at Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard, Kansas when he was able to feed the lemurs and feel the softness of their hands as they touched his hands while retrieving their snacks. He loved getting to meet Monica (Rhino), Mars (Pygmy hippo) but the lemurs stole his heart.

John is preceded in death by his mother, Helen Blewett.

John is survived by his spouse Janice Rockwell, Valley Center, KS, son Malachi Rockwell, International Falls, MN and many friends that are more like family all over the country.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated in his memory to: Tanganyika Wildlife Foundation, 1000 S Hawkins Ln, Goddard, KS 67052 – put on memo line of checks, John Rockwell Memorial or online at foundationtw.org.

A celebration of Life is being planned for July 4th weekend of 2027 to honor his love of the Holiday. A memorial stone will be placed at Tanganyika sometime this fall in his honor.

Baker Funeral Home Valley Center is handling arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.