John Bradley "Brad" Isenhower

John Bradley “Brad” Isenhower, 58, of Conover, NC, passed away on Saturday, April 11th, 2026.

Born on October 12th, 1967, in Hickory, NC, Brad was the son of the late Horace Jordan Isenhower, Jr. and Sandra Goodman Isenhower. He spent his life rooted in the Catawba County area, where he built lasting relationships and a strong sense of family.

Brad was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found his greatest joy in the time he spent with those he loved. He shared 33 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kelly Rockett Isenhower, a partnership marked by commitment, love, and unwavering support.

He was a proud father to his daughter, Kelsey Isenhower Dellinger, and her husband, Clayton, and to his son, John Nicholas “Nick” Isenhower. Brad’s role as “Pepa” brought him immense happiness, and he cherished every moment with his two granddaughters, Hadley and Maisie Dellinger, who were truly the light of his life.

Also left to cherish his memory are his sister, Lisa Forsyth (Sean); his brother, Horace “Trey” J. Isenhower, III (Joe Hooper); his aunt, Elizabeth “Lib” Allen (Donald); his mother-in-law, Glenda Mathis (Eddie “Hank”); his sister-in-law, Stephanie Frye (Warren); his uncle by marriage, Terry Robinson (Wanda), as well as many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Brad was a 1985 graduate of Newton-Conover High School and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Traffic and Transportation Management from CVCC. He built a lifelong career in the transportation industry, proudly serving as owner and cofounder of New-Con Leasing, Inc. and New-Con Transportation, Inc., alongside his father, from 1986 to 2002. He also worked for Tru-Pak Moving Systems, a company originally founded by his grandfather, Horace J. Isenhower, Sr. Most recently, Brad continued his career with Penske Truck Leasing, where he worked up until his passing.

Brad took great pride in his passions, especially as the owner of Nicks Brands for the past 15 years, where he perfected his well-known “Speed Shine.” He spent many weekends at car shows, selling his polishes and connecting with others who shared his love for cars. Brad also had a deep appreciation for NASCAR and never missed an opportunity to tell a funny story from the old racing days. He found simple joy in riding to the mountains, a favorite pastime shared with his wife, Kelly.

Brad will be remembered for his love and dedication to his family, his warm personality, and his genuine spirit. He had a natural gift for conversation and never met a stranger - able to strike up a meaningful talk with anyone, anywhere. His sense of humor brought laughter to those around him, and he had a way of making people feel comfortable, welcomed, and valued in his presence. Brad’s memory will live on in the love he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the deep connections he built with those around him. His spirit will continue to be felt in the hearts of his family and friends, with comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of God.

He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, at Concordia Lutheran Church in Conover. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 2:45 pm, followed by the service at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Concordia Lutheran Church, 216 5th Ave SE, Conover, NC 28613.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The Isenhower family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.