John Kenton Zwick

John Kenton Zwick, age 72, of Paola, Kansas, passed away on January 11, 2026, in Paola, Kansas. A proud and devoted father, John’s greatest joy in life was his family.

John was born in 1953 in Manzanola, Colorado, to Lawrence Raymond Zwick and Patricia Ruth Zwick (Miller). He was one of four, brothers Gary (Cynthia) Zwick, Steven (Denise) Zwick, and sister Valerie Vasquez. One of his favorite childhood memories was driving his father’s tractor at the age of 13. He received his early education in Manzanola, Colorado, and later took college courses before entering the workforce.

John spent many years working as a conductor for the Missouri Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family through dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering work ethic.

John was united in marriage with Pamela Sue (Edwards) Zwick, who preceded him in death. Pamela was the mother of their three children and two stepsons and an important part of John’s life and family. Together, they shared the responsibilities and joys of raising their children, building a home rooted in hard work, love, and perseverance. Though she passed before him, Pamela remained an enduring part of John’s story and the family they created together.

Above all else, John was a devoted and loving father to his five children: Justin Keith Zwick (Odette), Anthony (Tony) John Zwick (Jennifer), Nicole Ann Zwick-Panuco (Nicolas), Kenton Allen Zwick (Lindy), and Ryan Ray Zwick (Nicole). They dearly miss him and the many life lessons he imparted, especially his belief: “If you’re helping yourself, I will always help you.”

John took great pride in being a parent and in teaching each of his children the importance of responsibility—whether it was car maintenance, keeping vehicles clean, or simply taking pride in what you had. He was deeply proud of each of his children and their accomplishments.

John was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Stewart, Stephen, Matthew, Kaya, Alexandra, Kensley, and Miles, who brought him great joy.

John shared an especially close bond with his grandson Miles. Because they lived near one another, John and Miles were fortunate to spend a great deal of time together, forming a relationship filled with laughter and love. One of their favorite games was hiding a stuffed dog for each other to find—a simple tradition that became a treasured memory. Their closeness was a source of happiness for both, and that special bond will always be remembered.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Raymond Zwick and Patricia Ruth Zwick (Miller); his spouse, Pamela Sue Zwick (Edwards).

Visitation will be held on February 6, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Dengel & Son Mortuary–Crematory, 305 N. Pearl St., Paola, Kansas 66071. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Zwick family home.

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