John F. Warth, 82, of New London, died Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House, West Burlington. He was born May 5, 1942 in Burlington to Russell “Butch” and Dorothy Wasson Warth. He was a 1960 graduate of New London High School where he was proud to be on the successful football team. Immediately following graduation, he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas and Webb Air Force Base in Big Springs, Texas serving as an Airman 1st Class for four years. He later enjoyed reunions with his Air Force buddies. He was a member of the New London VFW Post #7641; former member of the New London Oddfellows; and was of the Presbyterian faith.
On March 21, 1969 he married Lettie Raines in Kahoka, Missouri. They divorced but remained close for the sake of their daughters. She died April 26, 2002.
John worked as a truck driver and farmed with his dad, grandpa, great-grandpa and Uncle Everett Warth. He was a loyal fan of the Cubs, Bears and Iowa Hawkeyes. He enjoyed woodworking; coaching his daughters in softball; gardening; taking drives with his brother Bob; and faithfully attending all of his grandchildren’s events. He single-handedly kept the lottery going by playing scratch-off tickets!
John was a wonderful father and grandfather and will be missed greatly by his daughters, Kerri (Joe) Menke of Danville, Mindi (Todd Hopkins) Bitting of West Burlington, and Shawnna (Steve) Lutes of New London; seven grandchildren, Zachery, Matthew, Jared, Austin, Kourtney, Bren and Raesa; and two great-grandchildren Bentley and Adelyn. He is also survived by his brother Bob Warth of New London; sisters Pat (Bob) Wright of New London and Jane (Jay) Lohman of Kellogg, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; ex-wife Lettie; brother Woodrow Warth who died in the Vietnam Conflict; sister Diane Carter and brother-in-law Bill Carter; and Uncle Everett Warth.
According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and inurnment will be held at a later date. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at Elliott Chapel, New London with Rev. David Mixon officiating. Military rites will be presented by the Henry County Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 until the time of the service; the family will not be present. A memorial has been established for the Wounded Warrior’s Project. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfueralchapel.com.