McIntyre, John

At his father’s service station in Farmer City, John McIntyre—known today as “Coach Mac”—learned a strong work ethic and a commitment to customer service that would shape his life as an educator, insurance agent, coach, and eventually as chair of the McLean County Board.

 At Farmer City’s Moore Township High School (now Blue Ridge High School), McIntyre was a strong student and star athlete, earning 13 letters in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field, all while serving on the student council (and his senior year as president).

John completed his college education at Illinois Wesleyan and Illinois State Universities. Following graduation, John’s career spanned roles in education as a coach, counselor, teacher, and driver’s education instructor.

Few today remember when the community was home to the Twin City Trojans, a semi-professional football team in the 1970s. John both played for the Trojans and refereed high school and college sports during that era. His lifelong involvement in athletics and officiating has been recognized with induction into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame (1995), Central Catholic High School Hall of Fame (1998), and Bloomington–Normal Officials Association Hall of Fame (1983). He coached in five Illinois State High School football championship games.

Public service remained a constant thread in John’s life. In 1980, Democrat Dale Dean persuaded Republican John McIntyre to run for the McLean County Board. He served from 1980 to 1988, chairing the Health, Human Services, and Recreation Committees. After retiring, he returned to the board in 2008 and served through 2023, including multiple terms as board chair.

Beyond his service on the McLean County Board, John has contributed his leadership and time to numerous community boards and committees.

A complete biography will be posted after the History Makers Gala.