John Porter "JP" Sunstrum

John Porter "JP" Sunstrum, age 77, of Polk City, IA, passed away on April 7, 2025, in Des Moines, IA, surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with complications from a prescribed medication. A Celebration of Life will be held at Iles Dunn's Funeral home located at 2121 Grand Ave, Des Moines on Friday April 18th, 2025 from 4:30pm-6:30pm.

Born November 18, 1947, in Oskaloosa, IA, to William and Mary Sunstrum, John grew up in Oskaloosa and graduated from Oskaloosa High School in 1966. He attended DePauw University in Indiana before transferring to the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business, where he graduated in 1970. It was in Iowa City that he met the love of his life, Patti Trexler. They were married in 1972 and shared 52 wonderful years together.

John dedicated his entire professional career to Bankers Advertising Company in Iowa City, retiring in 2017. He was a steadfast provider, a caring mentor, and a quiet but constant presence in the lives of those he loved.

JP was a man of many passions. He coached his kids' softball teams, helped with math homework, and was always ready with sound advice and a calm voice of reason. He had a deep love for all his dogs and an unmatched dedication to his family. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, boating, classic cars and tractors, card games, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, and grilling in any weather. Summers spent at Gull Lake, Minnesota, held a special place in his heart.

One of John's greatest joys was supporting his grandchildren. Whether it was a golf meet, a hockey tournament, a dance performance, a bowling competition, or a softball game-he was always there with a proud smile and encouraging words.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Sunstrum. He is survived by his beloved wife Patti; his children Kate Niedermann (Jeff) of Marshalltown, EJ Lillwitz (Tim) of Polk City, and Andy Sunstrum (Brooke) of Clive; and his grandchildren Porter and Teagan Niedermann, and Elliott and Callie Lillwitz. He is also survived by his siblings Peter Sunstrum and Barb Lindenmayer (Jim), several nieces and nephews, and his adored pups Maiya and Pippa.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to the Iowa DNR Fish & Wildlife Trust fund (https://programs.iowadnr.gov/donations).

Online Condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Funeral Homes.