John Lawrence Thraen was born to Lawrence and Lavina Thraen in Earling, Iowa on January 31, 1938. John was a lifelong member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa, being both baptized and confirmed there. He also attended St. Joseph's Catholic School. Following his graduation, John enlisted to the Army National Guard in 1960.
John found the love of his life when he met Judy Wilwerding. They were united in marriage on January 8, 1966, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Earling, Iowa. To this union, seven children were born: Loretta, Dan, Loraine, Donna, Gerry, Connie and Deloris.
John took great pride in his status of being a longtime Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He served as Grand Knight for 2 years as well as Knights of Columbus Secretary for 16 years.
In 1959, he briefly worked at the Amour Plant, then resumed farming. John was the owner of Earling Trucking Company for over 25 years.
John was a big fan of music. He enjoyed many years of dancing, especially the Waltz and Polka. His favorite instrument was playing the accordion. John loved visiting with everyone he met. He loved his family deeply and had a great sense of humor.
John passed away peacefully at his home in Earling, Iowa on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Lavina Thraen, his brother Joseph Thraen and brother-in-law William Andersen.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Judy Thraen of Earling, IA; children Loretta (John) Kafer of Troy, IL; Dan Thraen of Hiawatha, IA; Loraine (Ron) Riley of Ankeny, IA; Donna (Jeff) Schaben of Defiance, IA; Gerry Thraen of Earling, IA; Connie (Mike) Mumm of Harlan, IA; Deloris (Glenn) Young of Estherville, IA; 16 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; siblings Mary Andersen of La Vista, NE; Myra (John) Buman of Harlan, IA; including many other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers family suggests memorials be made in John's memory to Concerned, Inc.
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