John Elwood Finan, age 83, of Bear, DE passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Born on December 15, 1942, in Wilmington, DE, John was the loving son of the late John Elwood Finan, and Mary Jane (Brown) Finan.

John was a loving husband, who adored his wife Joye. He was a very social person with an affectionate personality whose presence brought warmth and calmness to those who knew him.

John was a proud Navy veteran, and his service remained an important part of his life throughout the years. He often spoke about his time in the Navy with respect and appreciation. John was a man who truly loved people.. He enjoyed watching western movies and appreciated the standard of that society, especially the idea that the good guy always won. He also enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, programs that became familiar favorites to his days.

John took great pride in his yard and in the house projects he completed. As a talented woodworker, he found satisfaction in working with his hands and in improving the place he called home. He enjoyed spending time observing his fish pond, waterfall, and squirrels.

John will be remembered for his enthusiastic personality, his love for people and especially his love for his family.

John is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Joye Finan; daughter, Wendy Lee Finan; sister, Gerri E. Bitter (husband, Robert P. Bitter), and other extended family members. In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his son, John Weston Finan; and grandmother-in-law, Margaret “Mama” Savage.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM at R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 W. Main Street, Newark DE 19711. A visitation will begin one hour prior at 2:00 PM where family and friends are welcome to attend. At a later date, burial will follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made payable to, “Make a Wish Foundation” and sent in care of the funeral home.