John Henry Lekin

John Henry Lekin, 79 of Cedar Rapids of Iowa passed away May 1st, 2025 following a long illness. John was an able seaman of the United States Navy, on the North Hampton CC1 Ship, 1963-1965.
He retired from Swiss Vally Farms at 55 where he was a proud teamster union member. Growing up in Iowa he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers and later in life enjoyed traveling to St. Simon's Island in Georgia, Florida, New York and Arizona. John dedicated many hours of volunteer work at a local nursing home. He was an avid card player who enjoyed pinochle, pepper and blackjack. He was dealt a hand of cards that landed with a full house of people who loved him.
Survivors include his wife Sharon Lekin of 14 years, their daughter Sherry Petersen and grandchildren Jody (Michael) Lyon and Hayden Petersen. Then remarried wife Jan Herrington of 24 years, their two daughters: Maggie (Andrew) Primmer and grandchildren Austin and Reily Schmitz, Kaleb McMurray, stepdaughter Tiffany Primmer. Janelle (Eric) Gates and grandchildren Nolan and Ethan, stepson Taylor. And son Daniel Lekin. He spent his final few years with his partner Cathy Davis. John also leaves a brother Thomas R. Lekin of Florida. Sister-in-law Brigitte Lekin of Georgia. A dear Aunt Ruth Johnson of Arizona. Many cousins, nieces and nephews who he shared many fond memories with through the years as well as numerous friends.
Preceded in death are his parents Thomas Henry Lekin, Vada Rose (Conklin) Kriz and his brother Jim W. Lekin.
Much gratitude to St. Luke's Hospital and Hospice for our father's care and comfort.
In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Mercy Medical Center, you can often make donations in honor or memory of someone, which can be a meaningful way to support dementia research and services.
University of Iowa:
The Aldridge Lab at the University of Iowa supports dementia research, including the SMASH Registry and brain-bank studies. https://aldridge.lab.uiowa.edu
A private graveside service will be held at Cedar Memorial.