Gavin, John Joseph

John Joseph Gavin

10/19/1928 - 1/16/2012

John J. Gavin Sr., of Winter Springs, Fla., and previously of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, died Jan. 16, 2012, with his family by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Winifred (Fisch) Gavin; his beloved wife, Geraldine Garvey Gavin; sisters, Anne Niebrugge, Rita Gavin and Barbara Stuber; and brother, Lawrence Gavin.

John is survived by his children: John Gavin Jr. and his wife, Kristin, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Molly Gavin of Kansas City, Mo.; and Daniel Gavin and his wife, Mary, of Winter Springs, Fla.; grandchildren, Tricia, Megan, Briana, Maureen and Seamus Gavin; and great-grandson, Ethan Boll. John was the loving brother to his last surviving sister, Joan Connolly, and is survived by numerous adoring nieces and nephews.

John was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, on Oct. 19, 1928, and was always proud to share his birthday with Mickey Mouse. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950-1952 during the Korean War. He was awarded the Commendation Ribbon for his service. Following his military service, John graduated from Indiana State Teachers College in 1955. He was a lifetime member of Knights of Columbus 909 and the Elks Club.

John was a born salesman and businessman, starting out as a pharmaceutical representative for Pfizer and went on to become a successful entrepreneur and business owner. He owned Gavin Communications and Manpower Temporary Services, where he had offices in Cedar Rapids, Ottumwa, Iowa City, Burlington, Marshalltown, Waterloo, Dubuque, Decorah, Mason City, Fairfield and Grinnell, Iowa; and St. Joseph and Kirksville, Mo.

John's generosity touched the lives of so many, especially his family. He was truly the “go to guy,” always willing to lend advice, a kind word or laugh as well as moral or financial support to almost anyone who needed it. He was a loving father and role model not only to his three children, but also to his grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews.

He loved a good joke and a hearty laugh, and his quick wit and Irish charm will be missed by everyone who knew him. His number one priority can be summed up in one word - family. The lessons he taught leave with us wisdom, a greater understanding of life, selflessness, and how to be better people. He was the epitome of a proud, true gentleman.

Family will receive visitors on Saturday, Jan. 28, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at the church. Interment: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to All Saints Catholic Church, 720 29th St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.

Please view and sign the guest book at

Published in The Gazette Jan. 25, 2012.