John W. O’Daniel, 74, Monmouth, IL, passed away at 5:09 p.m., Thursday, July 18, 2019 at his home.
He was born on May 25, 1945 in Monmouth, IL, the son of James Arrell and Sarahbelle “Talbott” O’Daniel. John was raised and educated in Monmouth and graduated from Monmouth High School in 1963. He later attended Oklahoma State Tech in Okmulgee, OK.
John proudly served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1967.
He married Janine Allen on May 10, 1969 at Immaculate Conception Church in Monmouth.
John owned and operated Maple City Steele in Monmouth for over 40 years. He started collecting, repairing and restoring cars and motorcycles at a young age, which was a lifelong passion for him. John was known to enjoy a warm Guinness. He would randomly drop off a flat (yes, a flat) of blueberries or a random pineapple at his kids house. He loved to dance, attending Moose Lodge #579! And he brought cranberries to every holiday celebration.
John was the first person his children would call when they needed advice and elbow grease. His talents to build and create were limitless. If you could draw it, John could build it. He was able to be doing what he loved until the very last day, working alone side his son. He instilled the value of trust and hard work in each of his children.
John enjoyed attending all of his children and grandchildren’s sporting events. He always enjoyed the time he got to spend with his family, especially his grandchildren. John was a long time member of the Monmouth Rotary Club and was a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Burlington, IA. John enjoyed volunteering weekly at the Burlington Food Pantry.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and one grandson, Will J. Kohn.
John left his children the ability to think outside the box, to work hard every day, and to offer and receive help when needed. He was one of a kind. Those that were lucky enough to know him are blessed with memories of his humor and passion for life. As he gave in life, he gave in death. John donated substantially to Gift of Hope.
A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be 3:00-6:00 p.m., Sunday July, 2019 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth. A private family interment will be in Monmouth Cemetery at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the Burlington Food Pantry or Jamison Center. For more information or to leave an online condolence please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
