John Smull

John William Smull, 87, died peacefully on Sept. 28, 2025, at Southeastern Iowa Hospice House, surrounded by family.

He was born on Jan. 31, 1938, in rural Moscow, Iowa, the son of Willard and Dorothy "Gretchen" (Birkhofer) Smull. He spent his early childhood years in Muscatine.

The family moved to Arizona, and John attended Tucson High School. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart, Edna Marie Sherman. After graduation, they married on June 8, 1957, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Muscatine. They were married for 68 years.

John earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona, where he played collegiate football. He completed his master's and specialist degrees in secondary administration at the University of Iowa.

John began his career as a teacher at Burlington High School. He taught history and coached football and wrestling. He transitioned into administration and became the vice principal at Apollo, later transferring to James Madison Middle School. He retired after working 30 years with the Burlington Community School District.

John had a special talent for working with middle school students. He was very involved with developing them to their full potential. He taught by example how to live with honor and how to work hard. He strived to be a positive role model to every child he coached or taught.

He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, the Eagles Club, the University of Iowa Alumni Association, and the University of Arizona Alumni Association. John also served on the Foster Care review board. He was very proud to serve in this capacity, making a difference in children's lives.

When John retired, he pursued his passion for golfing, playing cards, and meeting the guys for breakfast. John valued his friendships and enjoyed spending time with his buddies. He always put his family and friendships first.

He took great pride in his children's and grandchildren's activities and accomplishments. He was a great husband, father, friend, and son. John's loving spirit will forever be missed and remembered.

Survivors include his wife, Edna; three sons, Scott (Deb), Kevin (Amy), and Sean; three grandchildren, Samantha, Christopher, and Madeline; three step-grandchildren, Stephanie, Ashley, and Aiden; niece, Janice (Mike) Shuger; sister-in-law, Audrey Burke; brother-in-law, Walter (Mary) Sherman; sister-in-law, Sondra Smull; and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Delores Ziegenhorn; brother, Willard Jr.; nephew, Christopher Smull; and brother-in-law, William Burke.

The memorial service for John will be 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, at Christ Episcopal Church, 623 N. Fifth Street, Burlington, with Father Carl Mann officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are established for Southeastern Iowa Hospice House, the Burlington High School Athletic Association, and PEO Chapter NH Women's Scholarships.

Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting John's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com