John Nokovic Obituary

John Nokovic

November 27, 1958 - February 6, 2026

John Nokovic, of Necedah, Wisc., passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the age of 67.

John was born on November 27, 1958, in Milwaukee, Wisc., to Dmitar and Josephine (Ronca) Nokovic. He was raised in Milwaukee but spent many summers in Necedah at his family's summer home, a place that held many of his fondest childhood memories. No matter where life took him, his heart always led him back "up north," to the place he loved most.

Throughout his life, John pursued many passions alongside his full-time career in sales. His diverse interests demonstrated his boundless creativity and lust for life. He was a musician, writer, actor, entrepreneur, and human rights activist. Above all, he had a deep love for the arts.

His love of music and talent as a drummer led him to play in the San Diego band The Ant Lions in the 1980s. He continued to explore his musical interests and, years later, performed as the drummer in Bojo's Mojo and Get Back, a Beatles cover band that supported his lifelong admiration for the legendary group. Over the years, Get Back performed the entire discography of The Beatles and sold out the Barrymore Theater multiple times. He also ran a successful DJ business and loved acting in many productions with the Mighty Carlson Arts Players. John even patented his own drumsticks and drum keys.

John was also passionate about nutrition and wellness. He studied holistic nutrition and became a licensed massage therapist, eventually opening his own massage therapy practice. John had an inquisitive mind and a lifelong desire to learn. This desire led him to open Book Bog in 2011, a bookstore that served the avid readers in the community.

Above all of John's personal and professional accomplishments, nothing brought him greater joy than being the proud father to Brianna, Jacob, Olivia, and Adam, and a grandfather to Noah.

John was a thoughtful, logical, and philosophical thinker who enjoyed exploring ideas and understanding the world around him. Deeply passionate about human rights, equality, love, and peace, John lived his values with conviction and compassion.

John lived his life with purpose and meaning. He found joy in life's simple moments. He loved animals, nature, and being outdoors. His love for animals was evident in the special bond he shared with his dogs, Penny Lane, Lovey, and Nuzzy, who were a constant source of love, joy, and adventure.

Those who knew John will remember his witty sense of humor, his loud clapping, whistling, infectious laugh, and his ability to make the most interesting food concoctions you've ever seen! He leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts of his family, friends, coworkers, and everyone who was blessed to be loved by him.

John is survived by his children: Brianna of Milwaukee, Wisc. Jacob of Chicago, Ill., Olivia of St. Paul, Minn., and Adam of Milwaukee, Wisc. John is further survived by his grandson, Noah; his sisters, Julia Nokovic and Rita Nokovic, of Milwaukee, Wisc., Maria (Ljuba) Vulovic of Cashton, Wisc.; his sister-in-law, Priscilla Nokovic of Milwaukee, Wisc.; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and distant relatives here in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Italy, and Serbia.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dane Nokovic.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in John's name to Rocky & Rusty's Redemption Rescue in Mauston, Wisc., where he volunteered much of his time later in life.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah, Wisc. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.