John Werner, 73 of Dedham, died Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Thomas Rest Haven in Coon Rapids.
Mass of the Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dedham. The Celebrant will be Father Patrick Behm, assisted by Deacon Louie Meiners. The Casket bearers are Kevin Schreck, Zack Schreck, Kolton Schreck, Clint Dickey, Dustin Werner and Jarrett Werner. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Dedham with military honors conducted by the Dedham American Legion.
A visitation will be held from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Tuesday at the church prior to the Funeral Mass.
Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Sharp Funeral Home in Carroll and online condolences may be left for John’s family at www.sharpfuneral.com.
John Michael, son of John F. and Dardinell (Bohnenkamp) Werner, was born September 30, 1951, in Carroll, Iowa. He received his early education in Dedham and graduated from Kuemper High School in 1970.
Following graduation, John entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in Berlin for much of his time in the service. Upon finishing his tour in Germany, John went to work for the Milwaukee & Rock Island Railroad and there developed his love for trains.
John lived in Davenport for many years where he also became interested in stock car racing. He loved racing and had his own number 24 car. He met many new friends during this time. However, by then, he also lost several close friends at a very young age. He never forgot them and still talked of the fun times they all had together.
During his time in Davenport, John also started his own business called Intermodal Maintenance and Repair. He also became very involved in the Moose Lodge, serving as Governor from 2000 to 2006. John spent many holidays cooking and serving turkey to the poor and homeless.
After selling his business, he moved “Home” to Dedham becoming involved in the American Legion and at one time was Commander.
Several years ago, John had two strokes leaving him handicapped. In the last month, it was discovered that he had cancer. John told family not to be sad but to be happy that the pain would be over.
John was preceded in death by his parents, brother Mark Werner, and a nephew John Schreck.
Survivors include his sister Lynda (Jim) Bohlender of Guthrie Center; his brother Robert Werner of Grand Meadow, Minnesota; an Aunt, Annabelle Snyder of Carroll; a sister-in-law Jackie Werner of Dedham; and by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
