He was born on May 22, 1943, in Sterling, the son of Exiquio and Maria (Rodriguez) Echebarria. He had worked in the nail room at Northwestern Steel and Wire Co for 24 years, retiring in 1999. John and his family were active members of Tabernacle Christian Church in Sterling, where they ministered the labor of love to build the Kingdom of God. He enjoyed going to movies at the Sterling Theater, drinking coffee, and riding his bike throughout town.
Survivors include many nieces and nephews; special nephew Noah (Dalilia) Martinez; nieces: Anita Martinez, Angelita (Hector) Mendez, and Debra (Jason) Lira.
He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters: Carmen Echebarria, Marylou Echebarria, Adeline Martinez, and Maria Moncivias; six brothers: David Echebarria, Ruben Echebarria, Frank E. Echebarria Sr, Tony Echebarria, Ezekiel Echebarria, and Jeronimo Echebarria.
Visitation will be Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 12 – 1 PM at the McDonald Funeral Home & Crematory in Rock Falls. The funeral will follow at 1 PM.
