Veteran Spotlight - John Zehner

Veteran Spotlight: John Zehner

Growing up in Chesterton, Indiana, John Zehner was ready for a new challenge after graduating from high school. In 1966, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, beginning two years of military service that would shape both his career and outlook on life.

John completed his training at Fort Lewis in Washington before deploying to Vietnam, where he served in the Army's artillery. During his time overseas, he trained with a variety of military weapons, including the M16A1 rifle, while supporting artillery operations that played a vital role on the battlefield.

When his military service concluded in 1968, John returned to Northwest Indiana and put the mechanical skills he developed in the Army to work as a welder. He spent many years working in the steel industry before eventually retiring.

Retirement, however, hasn't meant slowing down. John and his wife, Carol, stay active with their four children and nine grandchildren while enjoying a variety of hobbies together. Whether they're camping in their RV, attending classic car shows, or checking another adventure off their bucket list, the Zehners are always looking for their next outing.

Classic cars are one of John's greatest passions. Although he doesn't enter competitions, he enjoys traveling to shows throughout Indiana to admire the vehicles and spend time with fellow enthusiasts. His pride and joy is a 1984 Avanti, which he and Carol frequently take out for leisurely cruises. Among their favorite events are the Essenhaus® Classic Car Cruise-In in Middlebury, along with local shows in Valparaiso and Westville. John also enjoys attending the annual Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb, where vintage automobiles race up the famous 1,800-foot hill in one of Indiana's most celebrated automotive traditions.

The couple is equally enthusiastic about trying new experiences. One recent highlight was taking a tethered hot air balloon ride near Bloomington, Indiana. After making reservations months in advance, they finally had the opportunity to enjoy the unique perspective from above. While it wasn't a free-flight balloon ride, the experience only strengthened their desire to take an untethered flight in the future.

Camping remains another favorite pastime. For the past several years, the Zehners have explored campgrounds throughout Indiana and neighboring Michigan in their RV, although they've shortened some trips due to rising fuel costs. Even so, they continue working toward visiting every Indiana State Park.

John's philosophy is simple: if an event or adventure sounds interesting, he's willing to hit the road and experience it. From serving his country in Vietnam to embracing retirement with curiosity and enthusiasm, he continues to demonstrate that life's greatest adventures don't end with military service—they simply take on a new form.