John Arvid Hedman died Saturday, November 18, 2017 of pancreatic cancer.

His family was by his side.

He was born July 6, 1959, the seventh of eight children of Russell O. and Cornelia K. Hedman of Roseland, N. J.

John attended West Essex High School.

In 1979, he married Jeanne Stewart and together they had three wonderful children: Sarah Panmone (Bruce), Stewart and David.

John worked for a surveying company for 30 years.

In 2011, John moved to his newly-adopted town of Clifton Forge with his life partner, Shauna Donovan.

John enjoyed Clifton Forge and helped out wherever he could, from acting at the Historic Masonic Theatre to mowing the amphitheatre's lawn to putting up Christmas lights.

John's friendliness and easy going manner made him many friends.

John is survived by his three children, as well as two much-loved grandchildren, Ella and Lucas.

He will be missed by his brothers and sisters and his pet, Rhi-Rhi, Orrie and Cat.

Contributions may be made to the Historic Masonic Theatre, Mountain Regional Hospice or the Alleghany ASPCA shelter.

Go out for nice dinner or go from a hike in the mountains to celebrate your memories of John.