Bodkin, John

John Bodkin, 61, of Largo, Fla., formerly of Olin, died Aug. 13, 2012, at his residence.

John was born May 2, 1951, to Daryl “Red” and Norma Bodkin. He was an Air Force veteran and served during the Vietnam War. His love of working with the public started in his teens when he helped his Uncle Everett Smith and later his Uncle Jack Bodkin on their Hometown Dairy routes. After graduating he worked for Everett in Cedar Rapids in the Western gas stations. After the military and marriage he returned to Olin and eventually worked for Schwans Ice Cream Co.

He lived in Lisbon when he moved to Florida in 1981. In Florida he was a bread route salesman and owner/operator of his route for Flowers Baking Co. He was working with his son, Corey, to take over the route so he could eventually retire.

John is survived by his two sons, Timothy and Corey; his father, Daryl; brother, Barry; and sister, Trudy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, as well as the two uncles mentioned.

He will be missed by all who knew and loved him and his winning smile.

Family and friends will gather to remember and fellowship on Sunday, Sept. 9, at the park building in Olin from noon to 4 p.m. A memorial service, with military honors, will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery in Florida at a later date.

Published Aug. 24, 2012 in The Gazette