Toms, John J.

John J. Toms, 69, of Cedar Rapids, formerly of Lowden, died Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha. A Funeral Mass by All Saints Catholic Church will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, by the Rev. David O'Connor. Visitation: 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, with a vigil service at 5:30 p.m. Burial: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.

He is survived by two daughters, Laura Toms and Karen (Ed) Martin, both of Cedar Rapids; three grandchildren, Curt Wery, Erica Wery and Amanda Martin; two brothers, James (Peggy) Toms of Shueyville and Michael (Jody) Toms of Marion; his former wife, Donna Randak of Emily, Minn.; and his special friend, Kathie Wimer of Cedar Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his parents. John was born Nov. 15, 1939, and spent the majority of his life living in Cedar Rapids. As a young man, John began a distinguished career with The Cedar Rapids Gazette. His career culminated with owning and operating JT Distribution, a highly successful business which he started as one The Gazette's first independent contractors.

John's exceptional work ethic allowed him to retire and move to Lowden, where he spent several years enjoying his lifelong passion of the outdoors. John spent much of his time hunting and fishing with his many friends and family members. John was also an active member of several clubs and organizations over the years, including Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever and Whitetails Unlimited.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Mercy.

John's family would like to thank Dr. Mary Anne Nelson, Dr. Kenneth Cearlock, the many caring members of the Hospice of Mercy care team, and the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

Please sign the online guest book and share a memory about John at