James John

James John

Marion

James John, 88, passed away on October 30, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born to Malvern and Geraldine (Sobotka) John on June 29, 1936, in Davenport, Iowa. He graduated from Oxford Junction High School in 1954 before finding his career, passions, and most importantly, the love of his life.

In 1954, shortly after graduating high school, Jim swiftly jumped into a career with the Milwaukee Railroad which he loved. He found himself working his way up to an engineer position and earned various safety awards throughout his 39 years with various railroad systems. He brought his love for the railroad home with him as he had a passion for collecting old keys, watches, and other railroad tributes he would still clean and polish to his death.

Jim had also found a home within the National Guard after having joined on May 2, 1959. His tenure of three years with the National Guard saw him work his way to Section Chief, earning much praise and respect from his fellow guards. Jim was honored to speak on his years with the National Guard and would cherish his old memorabilia, sharing stories and pictures with his kids and grandkids. He completed his time with the National Guard on May 1, 1962, and as much as he’d have loved to serve more, his priorities had shifted to something closer to home.

He had found the love of his life in Barbara Homan in 1957, whom he then married on January 9, 1965. They had found a love and a bond that would span across 67 mortal years, having spent 59 married, and infinitely more in death. With the births of their two daughters, Michelle and Darci, their family had been made and settled into Marion, Iowa.

Jim was known for his gentle smile, huge heart, and a level of compassion that couldn’t be shook. He was quick to offer help to others, often putting his wants and needs aside. He sought after those in need and seemingly always knew what to say at the right time. Although his jokes were more satirical than not, his charisma would still crack a smile on anyone’s face.

He had many passions from all corners of the playing mat but found happiness and skills within them all. Jim was an avid hunter, bowler, and gambler spending many days at Meskwaki Casino. He was a huge sports fan as well, with a love for the Kansas City Chiefs, Mark Martin in NASCAR, and the Iowa Hawkeyes, especially the recent years of the Iowa Women’s Basketball program. However, his home away from home was their cabin on Lake Delhi, where they’d spend many weekends every year. He treated his cabin like his sanctuary and could often be found relaxing on the dock, fishing, bird watching or pontoon cruising.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Barb; parents, Malvern and Geraldine John; eldest brother, Malvern John II; and beloved Shih Tzu, Doozi.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Micki (Matt) Crispin and Darci (Mike) Klees; grandchildren, Jamie, Alex, and Corey Crispin; Lauren and Trey Jasa; stepgrandchildren, Ethan and Brady Klees; older brother, Bud (Dora) John; and half-brother, Jerry Noble.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to a favorite charity. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.