John Eden

JOHN EDEN

Robins

John Richard Eden, 66, of Robins, died Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at St. Luke's Hospital, Cedar Rapids. The family will receive visitors at Cornerstone Church, 925 Blairs Ferry Rd., Marion, from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 18. A celebration of life will follow at 3 p.m. Burial will be at a later date.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Joy; his children, Matthew of Robins and Jennifer of Mount Vernon; brothers, Ervin Eden Jr. (Elizabeth) of Phoenix and Larry Eden (Dori) of Shellsburg; sisters, Annie Ferry (Timothy) of Solon and Mary Ruble (Dave) of Cedar Rapids; mother-in-law, Dorothy Kraft of Marion; sister-in-law, Judy Ricca (Dennis) of Naperville, Ill.; and numerous nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

John served two tours of duty in Vietnam in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1975. He then worked for 33 years at Newell Machinery in Hiawatha until his retirement in 2008.

John was involved as an adult leader in the Boy Scouts of America and The Order of the Arrow with his son. He enjoyed horses and the farm life with his daughter while working and developing her acreage.

A sweet and gentle man, John was a jack-of-all trades who enjoyed home remodeling. He also enjoyed piloting his pontoon boat on Palo Lake, watching NASCAR, tending his flower garden, and helping family and friends.

His biggest passion in life was being a devoted, loving husband and father who cherished his family, church, and his "puppy," Hawkeye.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family or the Boy Scout Camp Wakonda (mail to 660 32nd Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404).

Thanks to all the staff and doctors at St. Luke's Hospital fourth and fifth floors, palliative and hospice teams.