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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Tuesday, August 26, 2025
John R. Petersmith
John R. Petersmith
Cedar Rapids
John Petersmith, age 78, of Cedar Rapids and beloved son of Robert (Bob) and Mary Petersmith, passed away after a short illness. John was born July 2, 1947, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Chris, son Francis (Jim), wife Susan and precious granddaughter Ila Mae. His daughter, Tina Sorensen and husband Eric. Three sisters, Margie Ridler, Kate Modzelewski and Celee Philipp. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jim Petersmith. John had several special nieces and nephews as well.
John graduated from Washington High School in
1965 and served in the US Navy as a Seabee from May 1966 to May 1970. John was a Vietnam Era Veteran. Upon returning from his service, John worked at Lefebure for many years until the plant closed and then began a career with the Marion School district, before retiring.
John enjoyed spending time with his family and with his Lefebure coworkers during Tuesday coffee. On occasion, he loved a quick trip to the casino with his wife and collected change from the trips to fill piggy banks for Ila Mae. He had an amazing sense of humor and will be missed.
No services will be held at this time, but a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank UnityPoint Hospice and the nurses at St. Luke's Hospital Hospice floor for their support. Memorials may be directed in his name to Iowa Humane Alliance.