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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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John Pallo
John Pallo
Cedar Rapids
John Vito Pallo, age 86, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on September 18, 2025. He was born on April 20, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Salvador and Beulah Pallo.
John attended Christian Brothers College in Memphis and went on to earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Mankato State University. He proudly served his country in the Air National Guard. John built a long and successful career in sales, training, and support with Melroe Bobcat.
A man of deep faith, John and his wife, Clara, were devoted members of St. John XXIII Catholic Church, where John found joy in worship, fellowship, and singing in the parish choir.
John lived life with boundless energy and curiosity. He completed ten marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and continued riding his bicycle until the day before his accident. He loved the outdoors, camping, pickleball, and traveling—eventually visiting all 50 states. A lifelong rail enthusiast, he built an elaborate model train village in his basement. He also shared his love of storytelling through the publication of two novels: Seeking a Perfect World and Pope from Peoria. John was an avid supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs.
Known for his humor, generosity, and practical skills, John lived by the motto: “Will work for food.” He was always ready to load up his tools and lend a hand with any home project—large or small, with Clara by his side. His only “payment” was a homemade meal, a reflection of his selfless spirit and joy in helping others. His kindness, wit, and laughter will be deeply missed.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Clara; his brothers, Tony Pallo and Ed Pallo; his children Jenny, John, Joe, Jackie, Jane, and Lisa; grandchildren Holli, Nicholas, Courtney, Vincent, Cassandra, Sam, Nina, Molly, Abby, Henry, Aiden, Calaen, Kory, Koby, Hannah, and Sacha; and great-grandchildren Ben, Evelyn, Gianna, and Aurelia.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mickey, and by his parents.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. John XXIII Church in Cedar Rapids on October 12 at 10:00 a.m., with a Celebration of Life luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Disabled Veterans Association.
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