John D. Ehn

John D. Ehn, a cherished educator and devoted community member, passed away on March 11, 2026, at the Grundy County Memorial Hospital in Grundy Center, Iowa. He was born on December 17, 1954, in Storm Lake, Iowa, and lived a life characterized by his unwavering faith, kindness, and a deep commitment to serving others. John spent his entire professional career at the BCLUW Community Schools, where he taught fifth grade and middle school science. He coached many sports, but his love was coaching football, that he coached for 35 years. John served the BCLUW School District for a total of 44 years, finishing his career as a substitute and activities bus driver. 

Known for his innovative teaching, John loved taking students on many field trips. The two field trips he loved the most were the trip to the State Capitol and Springbrook State Park, fostering a learning environment that embraced exploration and adventure. He is fondly remembered for starting the "Fun on Friday" tradition, which brought joy to his students.

John graduated from Laurens High School in 1973. John played football at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, earning a BS degree in Elementary Education and Physical Education in 1977. His commitment to education and community never faded; he was a member of the Lion’s Club, the Conrad Museum Board, and a long time member of the Conrad Park Board, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Conrad Family Aquatic Center. His dedication also included planting hundreds of trees throughout the community, bird watching, and participating in the training exercises for Conrad’s K-9 unit. John was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for the Iowa Cheerleading Coaches Association. In 2000 he was named Assistant Coach of the Year by the Iowa Football Coaches’ Association.

John was known for his supportive and generous spirit. He had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met, often beginning conversations with the famous question, “Where are you from?” His heart was tender, always eager to lend a helping hand to others. He was a faithful member of Beacon Christian Church and the church janitor for 13 years. Even though John was baptized as a baby, he chose to publicly declare his faith through a Believer’s Baptism on January 8, 2026.

John shared a remarkable 50-year love story with the love of his life, Jeanne. Their bond carried them through life’s joys and challenges including John’s recovery after a massive stroke. An avid geocacher, John set a personal goal during his recovery to find his 1,000th geocache, and he accomplished this with friends in Florida, reflecting his determination and adventurous spirit. John and Jeanne held a deep gratitude for the staff at On With Life, whose compassion and dedication, alongside Jeanne’s unwavering support, made it possible for them to continue their adventures together. The care and kindness of the On With Life team will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

John was proud of his family, which includes his beloved wife, Jeanne Ehn; his daughter, Jillissa (Kyle) Healy; his son, Josh (Ashley) Ehn; and his grandchildren, Max, Jackson, Carson, Luke, Jonathan, Melissa, William, and Margaret. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert (Carolyn) Ehn, Mike (Christy) Ehn, and sister, Linda (Bud) Thomas, as well as his brother-in-law, Bob Nelsen, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Gladys Ehn, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenny and Melva Nelsen, and his nephew, Jeremy Ehn. John was a man with a life full of purpose and dedication, cherishing every opportunity to make a positive impact on those around him. His legacy of kindness and service will continue to all who were lucky enough to know him.

A “Fun on Friday” visitation will be held on March 27, 2026, at Beacon Christian Church in Conrad, Iowa, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM followed by a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Beacon Christian Church at 10:30 AM. John requested that everyone wear their favorite sports gear, whether it is for high school, college, or pros. All Green Bay Packers fans: if you wear your Packer gear you will be asked to remain in the parking lot. ; ) Extra credit will be given for wearing shorts. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family. 

The family wishes to extend gratitude to the On With Life Rehab Center, Cedar Valley Hospice, and Grundy County Memorial Hospital for their kindness in supporting John in his final years of life.