John Raymond Hughes, 96, of Eau Claire, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Caretta Senior Living in Eau Claire.

John was born on May 22, 1930, to Edward N. and Mary Katherine (Hoppus) Hughes in Chicago, IL. John graduated from Austin High School. After graduation, John entered the military and served in the US Air Force for 6 years. Following the service John attended night school while working. He made a career in the banking industry becoming President of Suburban National Bank, Palatine, IL at a young age. He eventually became President of First National Bank of Columbus, Columbus, WI from which he retired.

John was active in the political arena serving as a trustee of the Palatine Village Board and member of the Palatine Board of Education. John was proud of his significant role in the establishment of the Buehler YMCA in Palatine. John loved the game of golf which he played regularly.

John was married on February 4, 1978, and is survived by his wife, Greta D. Hughes; sons Glen (Debra) Hughes, Raymond (Dianne) Hughes, Craig (Sheryl) Hughes and Bill Hughes. Grandchildren Shane (Tammy) Hughes, Abby (Michael) McDonnell, Melissa Feit, and Scott Hughes, Moriah Mackey, Monica (Adam) Delapena and many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Katherine Hughes; brother & sister in-law Edward (Lillian) Hughes, sister & brother in-law Lois (Clyde) Lytle, and daughter in-law Dianne Noel Hughes

John will be interned with military honors at the National Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois on July 20, 2026.

Friends and family may leave online condolences at www.smithfuneral.com www.WheelanPressly.com

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorials be made to the American Cancer Society https://American Cancer Society

Thank you to Smith Funeral Home-Eau Claire, WI, Wheelan-Pressly Funeral home, Rock Island, Il, and Viola Methodist Church for their assistance.