Palan, John Richard

John Richard Palan, a lifelong member of the Highland community, returned to his Creator on December 13, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 29, 1932, in the same town of Highland, Wisconsin, where he would spend his entire cherished life, John's journey on Earth came full circle as he passed away peacefully of natural causes.

John, known affectionately as "Tracker" by his friends and family, was the embodiment of a life well-lived. His was a life rooted in the Catholic faith, which helped to guide him through this maze of life. He was a man who not only walked in his faith but also built his life upon it, much like the sturdy structures he helped craft in his many years as a carpenter.

His education, though formal only to the high school level, was supplemented by a wealth of practical knowledge gained from years of hard work and dedication. John's professional life was a testament to his love for the land and God's creatures. He spent his younger years engaged in farming, tending to the earth and its creatures with a sturdy yet firm hand. His skills with hunting and fishing and carpentry not only provided for his family but also left a lasting legacy in the structures that still stand as a testament to his craft.

John is preceded in death by his siblings, Ruth Carter, Ginny Tabor, Eugene Palan, Genevieve Vanderslice, Polly Palan, oldest daughter Nancy Seraini, eldest son John Palan Jr. and youngest daughter Juanita Cooper.

John is survived by his two sons Scott W. Palan (Cathy), Mark P. Palan (Barbara), and daughter Amy M. Loy (David), 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.  He instilled in them the values of hard work, creativity, and the importance of family. Each of them carries a piece of John's adventurous spirit and interesting character within them.

His love for the outdoors was apparent to all who knew him. John found solace and joy in hunting, fishing, and gardening. His hands, often stained with soil, were a symbol of his connection to God's creation. The fruits of his labor, both in the field and in the hearts of those he loved, are the legacy he leaves behind.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing John would describe him as an adventurous soul, always seeking the next challenge. He was an interesting man, whose stories of life's trials and triumphs could captivate any audience. Above all, he was creative, able to envision and manifest beauty both in his craft and in the everyday moments of life.

John's passing leaves a void in the community of Highland, but his influence remains. His life was one of purpose and service, a beacon of what it means to live fully and faithfully. As we bid farewell to John Richard Palan, we take solace in the knowledge that he has been welcomed into the eternal embrace of his Lord and Savior. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the North Star leads the weary traveler home.

In the quietness of the Highland twilight, we imagine John, now free from earthly toils, casting a line into the celestial waters, waiting with the patience only a fisherman knows. And as the sun sets on the life of a man who was truly the salt of the earth, we give thanks for the time we were blessed to share with him. John Richard Palan, a true craftsman of life, may you rest in eternal peace.

 A visitation will be held at Ss. Anthony & Philip Catholic Church, Highland on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 am. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. A private family burial will occur at a later date. The McGuire-Peterson-Houck Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.houckfuneralhomes.com

McGuire-Peterson-Houck 

Funeral Home

Highland  •  608-929-4815

www.houckfuneralhomes.com