John L. Mitchener

Born in Jamestown, New York on June 16, 1957, to loving parents, Ruth and James Mitchener, John was raised on a legacy of family, faith and hard work.

A graduate of Falconer High School Class of 1975, John joined the workforce at Carborundum Monofrax. He continued his career as a Precision Saw Operator for 31 years until retirement in 2021.

He married his bride, Susan A. Ives, on July 10, 1998; joining their families as one.

John found joy in maintaining his historic home and property, which he and his father lovingly restored to craftsmanship quality. He found peace in being outdoors and that peace was all the better if there was a project to tackle. Often quoted as saying, “It’s not a project til’ the blood runs.”

In his baby book, his mother noted John’s love for “anything with wheels”. He carried and nurtured this passion throughout his life, restoring his ’65 Mustang “The Blue Mule” and ’79 F150. He and Susan’s first date was an October cruise around Chautauqua Lake.

He was an active member of the Kiantone Congregational Church where he formerly served on the Parish Counsel and, most recently, as Head Usher. Where there was work to do, he went ahead and quietly completed the task.

He leaves his eternal love with his surviving family; Brother, Jim (Kristine) Mitchener of Frewsburg; Sisters: June (Pete) Scheira of Jamestown, Judy (Gary) Lindahl of Jamestown, Jann (Mark) LeVine of McEwen, TN; Wife, Susan Mitchener of Frewsburg; Daughters: Janelle Swanson and Jessica (Ryan) Beaver, both of Jamestown, Jocelyn Whalen of Boulder City, NV, Lauren Swanson of Jamestown, Anna Swanson of Truckee, CA; Son, Zachary Swanson of Lake Elsinore, CA, Matt Swanson of Frewsburg; Grandchildren: Tyler Swanson, Jamie, Ryan Jr, Awsten, Raegon, and Mikael Beaver, Anna, James and Jack Whalen.

He enters heaven alongside those that preceded him, including his beloved parents, James and Ruth Mitchener; and granddaughters: Faith Marie Swanson and Samantha Beaver.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 1 pm on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025 in Kiantone Congregational Church. Rev. Mel McGinnis will officiate.

Friends will be received from 11 am to 1 pm on Tuesday in the church.

Memorials can be made to Kiantone Congregational Church (646 Kiantone Rd Jamestown NY) or Frewsburg Community Food Pantry (25 W. Main St. Frewsburg, NY).

You may leave a memory of John and words of condolence by visiting www.petersonfh.net.