Obituary – John Franklin Euritt
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of John Franklin Euritt on October 19, 2026, at the Mount Ayr Health Care Center, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 24, 1939, in Kellerton, Iowa, John was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend who left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
John was the beloved son of the late Pauline (Ross) and Thomas Wayne Euritt. He was preceded by his brother, Jerry Euritt, his Uncle Robb, and his great-granddaughter, Leah Keller. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Diana (White) Euritt, a daughter Dawn King and her husband Ronnie, Dawn’s daughter, Kendra, and her son Creede, step-sons Patrick and James Keller, and a legacy of ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren who will forever remember his warmth and generosity.
John and Diana’s love story began in Davenport, Iowa, where they wed on February 24, 1990, at the Landmark Apartments. Their union was blessed with the presence of friends and family, including John’s daughter, Dawn, and his sister, Becky, alongside her husband, Jerry Hentges.
A proud graduate of Lamoni High School, class of 1957, John possessed a remarkable intellect and a strong ambition to serve his country as a naval pilot. Despite his dreams being dashed due to an erratic heartbeat, John found his calling in various roles that showcased his work ethic and love for people. From farming with his dad to working for Wright’s Tree Service and for Roy Bucy to delivering propane and driving a school bus for Grand Valley Community School, where he delighted in the company of young students. He later became a respected member of the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Posse and a mason for the Grand Lodge of Iowa. He dedicated his professional life to long-distance trucking with Schneider National Trucking, eventually owning his own truck.
John’s innate mechanical skills were legendary, and his passion for farming, fishing and working on cars and tractors was well known. His clever wit and infectious smile could light up any room, and his playful, sometimes cheeky demeanor, reminiscent of his father, brought joy to those around him. With a heart full of kindness and a spirit of generosity, John had the rare ability to make everyone feel valued and welcome.
A service to honor John’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Armstrong Funeral Home, located at 205 W Monroe Street, Mount Ayr, Iowa. Visitation will be one hour prior to the start of the service. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Ringgold County Hospital, Mount Ayr Health Care Center, and EveryStep Hospice for their compassion and care over the past months.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in John’s memory. His life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and the enduring bonds of family, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
