John Mark Richardson, age 72, of Coon Rapids, IA, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at Thomas Rest Haven in Coon Rapids after a long illness.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at the First United Methodist Church in Coon Rapids with Pastor Kevin Evers officiating. Music will be by Rick Morain and Cindy Seastrom.
Visitation will be held at the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Coon Rapids from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Visitation will resume Wednesday morning at the church from 9:30 A.M. until 10:15 A.M. prior to the service.
Memorials may be left at the funeral home or church for the St. Anthony Regional Cancer Center or the Coon Rapids United Methodist Church.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Coon Rapids and condolences may be left for the family at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.
John was born on January 10, 1953 in Jefferson, IA, to James and Phyllis (Cook) Richardson. He attended Scranton Consolidated Schools from kindergarten through 11th grade. While attending Scranton High School, John’s interest in vocal music, under the direction of Robert Reck, grew into a life-long passion for music.
John graduated from Glidden-Ralston High School in May 1971. He then obtained a B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa in December 1974. In December of 1977, John graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Iowa. John’s professional experiences included child abuse investigations, mental health counseling services, and more than 30 years with Heartland AEA 11 as a School Social Worker and behavioral consultant. John also taught Sociology courses through DMACC.
John married Geraldine Marie Hakes on July 4, 1975; they divorced in 1995. Three children were born to this marriage: Wendy May (deceased), Vanessa Richardson, and Ian Richardson.
John married Sharon Kay Petersburg on December 6, 2003 at the United Methodist Church in Coon Rapids, IA. They cherished spending time with family and friends and performing music together.
John enjoyed studying religion, philosophy, and music. He performed in various rock and country bands from the mid-60’s through the 80’s and continued his musical interests through performances at community and church events. John wrote many songs and enjoyed recording them in his home studio. Highlights of his musical endeavors included performing with his wife, Sharon, son, Ian, brother, Will, nephew, Kesley, and other close friends. Serving others was important to John and he loved doing this by sharing his musical talent on a regular basis at Thomas Rest Haven for approximately 30 years.
John maintained close friendships that he made at UNI, having annual reunions with the “Shaw Gang” for over 50 years. He also loved participating in the weekly “Scranton philosophical group” discussions with dear friends.
John was preceded in death by his grandparents; his father and mother; a stillborn daughter, Wendy; and his parents-in-law.
Survivors include his wife, Sharon; children, Vanessa Richardson (Mike Stephens) of Aurora, CO and Ian Richardson (Cate Deventer) of Fort Wayne, IN; brothers, Jim (Gail) Richardson of Audubon, IA; William (Darla) Richardson of Manvel, TX; and 15 nephews and nieces. He was especially close to his cousin Dan Richardson of Coon Rapids, IA.
John was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in 2016. John and his family have been grateful for the skilled and compassionate care provided by Dr. Mark Westberg, oncologist, his staff, and all the wonderful care providers at the St. Anthony Cancer Center in Carroll, IA. We also want to express our heartfelt appreciation for the support from Pastor Kevin Evers, our church family, Hospice of the Midwest, and the Thomas Rest Haven staff.
