John Michael McVeigh Sr.

John Michael McVeigh, Sr., 76, Indianapolis, IN, peacefully passed away Sunday, May 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. John was born June 20, 1949, in Indianapolis to the late Gerald Clement McVeigh Sr., and Theresa D. (Noel) McVeigh. John attended Cathedral High School, Xavier University, Purdue University, and Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University. He was the founder and CEO of River-Mountain-Pacific Tree Care, Inc. in Indianapolis for over 40 years, and held an ISA arborist certification. John also served 13 years as a detective working in homicide, burglary, hostage negotiations, and special unit investigations with the Indianapolis Police Department. He was honorably discharged after being injured in the line of duty in 1985.

John was passionate about music and nature from an early age. His love for guitar playing led him to teach at the age of 14. He was the first guitar teacher to be employed by IRC Music Center in Indianapolis back in 1963. John also had a deep affection for trees and rescuing abandoned and injured wildlife. His favorite recuse was a hawk he named Thor.

Survivors include: His beloved wife, Karen (Lytle) McVeigh; sons, John Michael McVeigh, Jr. and Gerald (Gerry) Clement McVeigh of Indianapolis; daughter, Andrea McVeigh of Indianapolis; stepchildren, Leland B. Lytle-Bickers of Austin, TX, Donovan G. Lytle-Bickers of Columbus, IN and, Priscilla Ann Fuller (Shane Muegge) of Greenfield, IN; grandchildren, Ardan Blaez Nelson, Jayden Robert Fuller, Brooklyn Ann Fuller, and Hadley Louise Muegge; brother, Dr. Gerald (Robin) McVeigh II; sister, Kathleen (McVeigh) Cabiness, and nieces Kealeen Griffin and Kimberly (Ryan) Beesly and nephew Brian (Gwen) McVeigh.

John was comforted daily by his loving dog Anne during his long battle with cancer. She will dearly miss him. They were inseparable and forever friends. John will be remembered for his service to his community, his integrity, and his love for his family, friends’, nature and wildlife. His kindness and generosity will forever be remembered.

In lieu of flowers and in recognition of John’s law enforcement service, memorial contributions may be sent to: Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police https://instatefop.org/index.cfm?zone=/unionactive/view_page.cfm&page=PAC20Donations 

Services will be held at Indiana Funeral Care Harry W. Moore Chapel, 8151 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, Indiana. Visitation - Wednesday May 21, 2025, 12 pm – 1 pm with memorial service 1pm – 2pm, followed by graveside service 2:30pm – 3pm, at Oakland Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN.