John Lester Dougherty

John Lester Dougherty, 84, passed away on December 10, 2025, in Urbandale, Iowa. A memorial funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday December 19, 2025, at Iles Westover Chapel. Family will greet guests at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. John will be laid to rest in a private graveside service in Norwalk Cemetery. The services will be livestreamed under John's page at Ilescares.com

John was born on February 8, 1941, in Mason City, Iowa to John and Luella (Murphy) Dougherty. He attended Holy Family School and later graduated from Drake University. Not long after high school, he married the love of his life, Lynn Shrock, and together they built a beautiful life over 64 years of marriage.

John began his professional career in sales with SC Johnson, where he was known for his strong work ethic and his gift for connecting with people. After his sales career, he followed a new passion, home building. He constructed several homes in the Norwalk area, including one for his son, Jim. One of his proudest projects was the home he built for himself and Lynn at Lake Goodrich, a special place where he cherished time spent with family.

John was a man who never sat still. He loved having a project to work on, a story to tell, or a way to lend a helping hand. Evenings around the campfire at the lake were among his happiest moments, where he shared laughter, stories, and warmth with the people he loved most. He never knew a stranger, and his welcoming nature made everyone feel like family.

John is survived by his wife, Lynn; children: John (Ann) Dougherty, Jim (Barb) Dougherty, and Julie (Curt) Pargeon; grandchildren: James Dougherty, Brad (Sydnie) Dougherty, Sarah (Scott Borcher) Dougherty, Bridget Dougherty, Thomas (Elaine) Dougherty, Kate Pargeon, Olivia Dougherty, and Jake Pargeon; great grandchildren, Harper and John Dougherty; brother, Pat (Karna) Dougherty; and a sister, Mary Rosen. John was preceded by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in John's name can be directed to ARL of Iowa, Foodbank of Iowa, or Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity.

Online condolences and livestream can be found at Ilescares.com

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