John Lannan

John Lannan is a great example of what it means to get involved. John either helped people with, or donated towards, many funds within the Martin County Community Foundation. These include the Spirit of St. Martin’s Fund, Whitfield Men’s Educational Club, Arvin Whitfield Cemetery Fund, and St. John’s Cemetery Fund. He was also the co-founder of the Spirit of St. Martin’s Church Fund and the Whitfield Men’s Educational Fund.  And John, along with his siblings, founded the Joseph and Mary Lannan Family Fund in honor of their parents.

John was originally from Daviess County where he attended Montgomery High School. He furthered both his basketball career and education at Vincennes University, all while working on his farm.  He later received his master’s degree in an integrated math and physics educational program. He taught in Indianapolis before returning to his hometown of Loogootee. He worked at the Naval Ammunition Depot Crane (now NSA Crane) for the Engineering Department while his wife, Mary Jo, went back to school to become a registered nurse.  Mr. Lannan had four children and four grandchildren. With the little free time he had, he volunteered with the American Cancer Society and the Martin County Sewer and put his efforts toward an anti-bullying/bullying prevention program.

When asked about his motivation to give back to the community, John said, “The future of the community is in the hands of the younger people, and they will impact so many people in many ways.” John grew up with thirteen brothers and sisters, which meant financial challenges, but the community was always able to help him with the things he needed such as providing access to education, Christmas gifts, and volunteer opportunities.

John is a prime example of giving forth all you can to better our community. John participated in the meetings that led to the creation of the Martin County Community Foundation in 1999. He recognized the positive impact such an organization could have. We are forever grateful for his vision and dedication to helping our Community Foundation, and our community, thrive.