July 28, 2025 at 11:05 a.m.
John Dixon Harrod, 83, Flat Rock
By Norman Funeral Home
John Dixon Harrod, 83, of Flat Rock, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 8, 1941, to Dolph Oren Harrod and Mildred Dixon Harrod.On December 8, 1967, John married the love of his life, Penny Ellen Howe. Together, they built a strong and devoted family rooted in faith, laughter, and lasting traditions.He is survived by his children: Kimberley (James) Wheeler of Green Bay, Wisconsin; Kristy Harrod Green of Hope, Indiana; John Matthew (Kristine) Harrod of Hinckley, Illinois; Rheadon Harrod (Russ Hollenbeck) of Dale, Texas; and Karen (Todd) Carpenter of Brock, Texas. John & Penny have 22 grandchildren and 8 Great grandchildren.
John was preceded in death by his beloved son, Aaron James Harrod; his grandson, John Thomas Humphrey; and his son-in-law, David H. Green.
He is also survived by his sister, Patricia (Gerald) Crafton of Shelbyville, Indiana.
He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. John was a lifetime member of Flat Rock Methodist Church and was known for his steady faith, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.
He worked at Cummins Engine Company for 36 years, mentoring many and earned two patents for emissions testing equipment he designed. He continued to share his expertise through private engineering consulting for 11 years after retirement. Alongside his six children, John helped establish Maple Grove Limousin and proudly showed Limousin cattle nationwide for nearly 20 years.
John cherished family time and traditions above all else. He was a passionate gardener—a love that has been passed down through generations. He was also a devoted IndyCar fan who attended 56 consecutive Indy 500 races, a tradition he proudly passed on to his family. In 2025, 14 family members attended the race together in his honor. A funeral service for John will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Norman Funeral Home in Hope with Pastor Kristen Hanson officiating the service. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and one hour prior to service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Norristown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Online condolences may be expressed to John’s family at www.normanfuneralhome.net.
