John Thomas Resewehr
Dear Karla, Ashley, Lauren, and Family - Our hearts are saddened and go out to all of you in this most difficult time. We know that John is a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He will be greatly missed by many, but the strength of his spirit will live with us forever. May God Bless you all! Gregg & Carol, Abby, Hannah, AJ, and Maddie
Gregg & Carol Klocke
Cedar Rapids
IA
John, my friend - Yours is a friendship I value deeply, and I will always consider it one that I'm fortunate to have. I have always trusted and respected you. I've greatly enjoyed your willingness to listen and advise, to joke and have fun, and to share business ideas and discussions. I'll fondly hold onto the memories we created golfing together and the great discussions we shared over the beers after golf. We laughed together and cried together, hell - I think we laughed until we cried together. Know that you will always be with me and I will cherish our friendship forever! I'm sorry that I will not be with your family this weekend, but I know you realize I will be thinking of you. Love, your friend, Gregg
Gregg Klocke
Cedar Rapids
IA
John was one of the good guys. He was industrious, hard working, and very serious when it was called for. But he tempered that with humor. He was fun loving, kind and empathetic, and will be greatly missed by his AEGON friends and co-workers. May the family find comfort and strength from the scriptures, and from the many hearts that are saddened by your loss.
Wendy Dughi
Cedar Rapids
IA
To the Resewehr Family-Although neither of us actually knew John personally, we want you to know that he had quite an impact on two of our children that were fortunate enough to have worked with him. Our son Eric worked with John at NCS Pearson before he worked at Aegon. Eric had so many nice things to say about him and what a great guy he was. After John started working at Aegon, our daughter, Megan. worked with him in accounting. She too was so impressed with his professionalism and what a great person he was to work with. Megan wanted so much to be here for his services but she just wasn't able to find a flight back from Tampa due to the holidays. I know she'll be there in spirit for you in the days ahead and she hopes to get to Cedar Rapids over the Christmas holidays to visit with Karla. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief- Gene, Sue, Eric, Megan, and Trent Schroeder
Gene and Sue Schroeder
Bennett
IA
To the Resewehr Family: It was an honor and privilege to meet, know and work with John at AEGON. I'm glad I got the chance to thank him for the time, effort and faith he put in me - I have his teachings with me always. He was a good man, and I will miss him. Your family is now, as always, in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you now as He welcomes John. Blessings and Love, Kristen
Kristen Altenberger Singer
St. Charles
MO
From the time I "hired" John, when he was 4 yrs old, to help me and my sister Darla, deliver the newspapers throughout most of Marion, John has been working hard. He demonstrated a strong desire at a very early age to succeed. In areas, that he struggled at, he just resolved to work harder. John succeeded in family, friends, school and work his entire life. With Karla by his side from the 8th grade on, he dilgently set off to do the "right" things over and over. From putting himself through college at UNI to finding good employment opportunities, to getting his masters degree at George Washington to settling back home with his family and his Aegon family, he continued to always do the right things. John was an excellent husband and Karla and him were the very best of friends. He was an excellent father and loved his children by leading by example and taking the time to understand and listen to what they were telling him. John was the foundation of our family and my mother, myself and my other siblings and there spouses and children all looked up to John. He was our guiding light in times of trouble and was the voice of reason for entire family for as long as I can remember. Many times John has helped family members in time of need above and beyond the call of duty. He was my beam of hope, my best friend, my confidant, my supporter and the best brother I could have of ever dreamed of having. We shared so many good times together and went through so many of lifes ups and downs together. John taught me so much that often I felt like the younger brother. I have met many of John's friends and work friends and was not surprised they felt very strongly about John for many of the same reasons I do. John felt very blessed to have all the love and support that everyone showed during these last 2 months. I feel very blessed to have had him and Karla as such a big part of my life. To Haley's uncle, my brother and my best friend I will always love you and you will live within me forever. ALL MY LOVE Chuck and Haley Resewehr
Chuck Resewehr
Cedar Rapids
IA
The life of the party will be sorely missed. John was such a fun guy to have around, especially for playing cards! The night of his 40th birthday we could not celebrate as it was the day he found out about the return of his cancer. We had planned on bringing a case of beverages for him, but when it was postponed I told him we'd keep it waiting for whenever he decided to celebrate. We never did celebrate that birthday the way we all wanted to, and as John would surely know, the beverage was eventually drunk after several months though, which was a long time in our house! Now however, I think I will have to keep a "memorial case" set aside, just so we don't forget about how time slips by so fast, and how we shouldn't let the everday minutia keep us from getting together with our family and friends. Because of John I am going to hug harder, kiss longer, and care more deeply. He was missed, and will be missed even more so now that he is not physically with us. Our hearts and prayers go out to Karla, Ashley, Lauren, and all of John's family and dear friends.
Dana and Mark Nietert
Cedar Rapids
IA
My deepest sympathy to John's family. I have had the pleasure of working closely with John during the past seven years at AEGON. He was a colleague and a friend. He was a man of high character, dedication and sincerity. He was always considerate of others and willing to help in any way without request. You can be truly proud of John and the quaity life he lived. John will be deeply missed but remembered as someone who made a positive difference in the lives of those he touched.
Bob Kontz
Cedar Raoids
IA
To Karla and family, John was a great friend when I attended UNI in the 80's. We had a lot of good times just hanging out, laughing, listening to music, going to eat together in the student dining area, and working on music. I just loved the guy because he was kind, gentle and funny smart and cool. I was proud to know he went on to be successful in his career and more importantly as a family man. We hung out a lot and did a lot of things together. I will always think of him as a young hipster on the cutting edge of cool. His early passing away has taught me to live each day to the fullest and that is a great lesson. Thank you John! I love you!
Brook Hoover
Cedar Rapids
IA
John – our jobs often require us to provide some clarity around complicated issues and areas that sometimes don’t make sense. As much as we have tried to find an answer to this battle over the past two years, it’s too complicated and we haven’t been able to solve this one. I am sorry, friend. You’ve been a great friend over the past six years. Your dedication to family and to work, your wisdom and intelligence, your courage, and your sense of humor have been an inspiration to us all. Thanks for your final words of wisdom to me a few weeks ago. Even in your most difficult days, you continued to be more concerned about how others were doing rather than yourself. I am going to miss the short walk to your office to talk – about work, Hawkeye football, our kids’ sports activities, what’s on our to-do list, or whatever seemed important at the time. I’ll miss the business card we put on each other’s desk when we needed to talk. I will miss the laughter, the hugs and the tears, the bitching about deadlines, the Saturday morning bagels together in January. We had developed a bond that was very special to me. Your spirit will always be with me and help guide me. I have your aluminum foil-wrapped golf club in my office, and that’s where it will stay. This will always be a reminder to me how you kept your sense of humor even in the darkest times. Love and peace – your friend Eric
Eric Martin
Marion
IA
I was saddened to learn of John's passing; my heart goes out to the whole family. I was a regular at the Resewehr household in the mid 80's; as one of John's sister, Amy's closest friends in High School- I remember John fondly. He was the cool older brother. It was neat when John and I crossed pathes again; years later, all grown up- and working at Pearson. I know John will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him. Karla, Amy, Norma & family- you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeni Shaffer Hartford
Walford
IA
Karla and family- Although I am back home in Chicago for the holidays and unable to attend the services, please know that my thoughts and prayers, and those of my family, are with you and with all of John's relatives. I am deeply sorrowful over John's passing, but at other times like this I found the following verse uplifting, and I hope you find some comfort in its message. Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there; I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow, I am the sun on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awake in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there; I did not die. Peace be with you- Art Schneider
Art Schneider
Elmhurst
IL
Karla, please accept our sympathy in the loss of your husband, John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Del & Donna members of Indian Creek Country Club.
Del & Donna Roth
Marion
IA
Norma and family, I was so sorry to read about John's death. I will be up north with my Mom and family this weekend, but I will be thinking of you and hope I can talk to you soon. I know we haven't talked recently, but I have thought of you often and know you are living every parents' nightmare, I can't even imagine it. I will call soon. Love you, Normie. Take care.
Pat Malatek
Ely
IA
Dear Karla, Chuck and the rest of the Resewehr Family: Our thoughts and prayers are with this at this most difficult time; a time that we wish with all of our heart that you did not have to go through. Knowing death all too well lately, your strength must come from the many memories you hold dearly of the good man that each of you had the privilege of knowing, loving, and sharing your life with. It is through those rememberances that you will find your way out of the darkness. Again, we hold you in our thoughts and prayers today and always. Randy & Lisa
Randy & Lisa Keel
Robins
IA
1986 was half our lives ago. We listened to The Cure, tie-dyed our jeans in the bathtub, and wore our hair a bit longer and lighter than we would later on in life. John, Craig, and Brook were The Skitzo Boys and The University of Northern Iowa was the stomping grounds. We called John “Gilbert” or “Gilby” and called Craig “Lewis” after the characters in the movie Weird Science. I traveled with John and the “Boys” to nearly all of their Skitzo Boys gigs and one in particular stands out in my memory. We set out from Cedar Falls on a Wednesday night and drove at 40 MPH all the way to Ames in a horrible snowstorm that almost completely covered the farm roads that we traversed just so they could play at an empty bar on the Iowa State campus. Most of our “crazy experiences” took place on weeknights because, as I recall, John usually went home on the weekends to be with Karla. I was at John and Karla’s wedding but only saw him a few times after that. When I learned of John’s passing, I Googled him to see what he had been up to. I found out three things that I was glad to learn. First, I’m glad to see that John had returned to live in Cedar Rapids. Second, I was pleasantly surprised to learn of John’s passion for running. When we were friends in college, John wasn’t exactly fond of exercise. And finally, I am glad to see that John leaves behind a legacy, and a piece of himself, through his two daughters Ashley and Lauren. I pray that God will provide comfort and future blessings to Karla and the girls as well as comfort to all of John’s loving family and friends.
David Krempasky
Cleveland
OH
John, your passing was far too quick and far too soon. It seems only yesterday we were talking about your marathon experiences, the challenges you faced and the goals you set. As a fellow marathon runner I know how disappointed your were not breaking the four hour barrier but it did not stop you from trying again. You embraced the marathon of mortal life and lived it fully. You always saw the glass half full. While goals were set you were not consumed by them but took the time to enjoy the journey. We all should follow that path. To the family of John Thomas Resewehr, my deepest sympathy is with you. Every time someone leaves this earth far sooner than is expected I always ask why but never receive an answer. John’s passing is a reminder to us all how fleeting life is on this earth, how precious life is and how it should never be taken for granted. I share with you the following poem that reflects, in my mind, what John was all about. Don’t grieve for me for now I am free, I am following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call, I turned my back and I left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work, to play. Races left to run must stay that way. I found my Place at the close of the day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with much remember joy, a friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes, these things I too, shall miss. Be not burdened with the cares of your sorrow For I wish you the sunshine of many tomorrows. My life has been full and I savored it much, Good friends, good times, and a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time did seem all too brief But don’t lengthen it now with undo grief. God wanted me now, He has made me free, So lift up your hearts and share this moment with me.
John Mallett
Cedar Rapids
IA
Dear Karla, Ashley, and Lauren, and the rest of the Resewehr family: It is with my deepest sorrow to see all of you have to go through this again this year. The only consolation is knowing that John is with Terry now. Two wonderful men are standing with God looking over you. I regret that John won't be able to come back to California to share another trip to Napa with Todd and me. I was really hoping we could do that again. Todd was hoping for some golf at a winery as well. I remember the time you and John came to San Francisco for a business meeting. I think it was John's first trip to SF, and he didn't bring a coat which of course you definitely need in July. He had to go out and buy a coat and not just any coat...a Polo jacket. I also had to drive my new car that day with both of you and my parents in it. Looking back, I'm sure John was smushed in the back seat, but he never complained. It was fun to introduce him to the Napa Valley and enjoy a day of wine tasting with him. He was my Iowa "cousin" that would always appreciate a good wine! As always, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We love you very much!! In sadness, Todd, Shelle, Mason, and Tanner Jones and the rest of your California family
Shelle Jones
San Jose
CA
Karla & family: Please accept my condolences on the loss of John. I remember him as a friendly, easygoing kid from our days at CR Wash. Years later when he moved back home, I always enjoyed seeing him on occassion and catching up. Find comfort in the good life John lead and that he is now smiling at you all from heaven Rory Luehrsmann
Rory Luehrsmann
Marion
IA
Karla, Please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of John. Dating back to our days at McKinley, I cannot remember a time that he was not at your side. I am grateful that I was able to catch up with you both at our 20th reunion a few years ago. I know this is a difficult time for you and your family, but John was such a wonderful person and liked by all that he will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Cheryl Fay
Cheryl Fay
Kansas City
MO
Hello. We work with Dale Hoffman, Darla's husband, at the Tax Collector's Office here in Tampa, Florida. We just wanted to pass along our thoughts and prayers during what must be a terribly difficult time. Although we never met John, we felt like we knew him through all the funny and inspiring stories that Dale told us. He is quite a man and will no doubt be an inspiration to his children and the rest of us. Please take care. Preston Trigg, Kathy Meloy and Kirk Sexton Hillsborough County Fla. Tax Collector's Office.
Preston, Kathy and Kirk
Tampa
FL
My sympathies go out to the family and friends of John T. Resewehr. I work with Dale Hoffman, husband to Darla, and have heard many great stories of John's strengths throughout his illness. These strengths will help you get through these difficult times. May God bless you all. Sincerely, Durelle Freid
Durelle Freid
Tampa
FL
Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and the girls. May God be with you and comfort you.
Rick & Sharon Raley
Hudson
WI
Dear Karla, Ashley, & Lauren - I am so sorry to hear of John's passing far too soon. I worked for him about 3 years ago at AEGON and always thought he was a good boss but more importantly a great person. I know he loved his family more than anything & it was obvious in everything he did. He was so proud of his 2 girls and always had a story to share about their latest activities and adventures. May your memories of those happier days comfort you during this time.
Amy Larson
North Liberty
IA
To the family of John Thomas Resewehr, I never had the opportunity to personally know John, it was only through his sister Darla, that I was able to know him and his family . I truly believe that John's love for his family and friends will always exit because of the way he touched each life. May GOD continue to Bless and Keep your family always.
Shelia Battle
Tampa
FL
Karla, I am so sorry to hear the news today. I have so many wonderful memories of John. I will never forget the "B-52's" concert when we almost got you thrown out of your apartment. Or the time we decided to "feed the homeless" of Washington DC. We had so many great nights playing in our last ditch effort garage band. Then there was the attempt at putting all our great equipment to good use by being DJ's at a co-workers party, only to have torn up her floors with electrical tape. It's amazing that such crazy kids could turn out to be such respected adults. The great things about friends like John is that we could go months or even years without seeing each other, then pick up right where we left off when we got together again. I miss him so much already. I hope you call me when you come to Florida. I'd love to see you.
Kevin Franzese
Tampa
FL
Darla, Sorry to hear of brother John's passing, it dredged up memories of hot summer nights in Lisbon, at Grandpa Hap's. Hope all is well with you and your family. My thoughts are with you.