John Reed

John L. Reed, age 70, passed away on July 4, 2024, surrounded by his wife and daughters at his home in Clark County Wisconsin.

He was born on January 11, 1954, to Junior and Lois Reed in Viroqua, Wisconsin. At the age of 20, John enlisted in the Army, beginning a life of service to his community. He served with honor and distinction before transitioning to a career in law enforcement.

John dedicated 27 years to the Marathon County Sheriff's Department, where he rose to the rank of Chief Deputy before retiring. His commitment to public service and protecting others was unwavering, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him.

John's adventurous spirit extended beyond his career, as he loved exploring both the United States and international destinations with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was an avid hunter who appreciated the tranquility of rural life, spending half the year on his wooded property, where he found great pleasure riding his mower and tractor and had endless mow-tivation to maintain the grass and grounds.

In addition to his outdoor pursuits, John had a keen interest in current affairs, often watching the news and inquiring about political and world events. He was a lifelong learner who enjoyed reading books and taking on new challenges to grow and achieve new goals continually.

Above all, John's greatest joy was his family. He loved his wife, children, and grandchildren immeasurably. His life created a legacy of adventure, love, strength, and integrity.

John was the devoted husband to Johnnette Reed for nearly 50 years, sharing a lifetime of love, adventures, and cherished memories. John is survived by his wife, Johnnette, and their dog Pudge; his two daughters, Amanda Reed and Daniella Reed (Heath) Edens; and his cherished grandchildren, Colton Reed, Elyse Noel, and Natalie Mae.

John is additionally survived by his mother, Lois Reed; his brother, Jim Reed; and his sister, Kathy Reed; as well as many additional caring family members. He was preceded in death by his father, Junior Reed, and his beloved dogs, Chelsea and Taz.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital or your local humane society, organizations that were both meaningful to John.

We invite you to please privately celebrate John L. Reed's memory however you best see fit knowing he will be deeply missed and remembered fondly by his family, friends, and all who knew him. May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy of adventure, dedication, and love lives on in those he cherished.