Reverend John R. Squire (’59)
The following obituary was originally Published in Des Moines Register and can be found here.
John R. Squire, 94, thought deeply and moved through this world with quiet humor, kindness, and patience. He passed away peacefully on 7/11/2025 at Harmony Gardens Senior Living, Maplewood, Minnesota, where he resided near his children since January 2024.
Born in Grinnell, Iowa to Edward Gray and Fern (White) Squire on 1/15/1931, John grew up in Shenandoah as the youngest of four brothers. As a youth, he helped at the family business, Squire Ice Cream Co., and became the youngest licensed pilot at Shenandoah airport. He graduated from Iowa State University, where he met his wife-to-be Martha Jane Dloughy. They married 12/27/1955 in Waterloo after he returned from 3 years as a teaching missionary in Japan. He attended Boston University School of Theology and was an ordained elder in the Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church.
John served as a pastor in Waterloo, Mason City, Sioux City, and Des Moines. During his working years, he was also an admissions counselor at Morningside College and a counselor and child protection worker for the State of Iowa.
He loved deep conversation, classical music, bicycling, being outdoors, and traveling with family and friends. He and Martha delighted in hosting gatherings large and small. John’s meticulous craftsmanship showed in his multiple home improvement projects.
Preceded in death by his wife, his parents, and his brothers Edward Gray Jr. (Gray), George Varnum, and Wilbur Stewart (Bill) Squire. Survived by his children Debra Jane Squire Dietzman (Gordon) and Mark David Squire. Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery, Waterloo.
Celebration of John’s life: Monday, July 28 at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 W County Rd. C2, Roseville, MN. Gathering social, 3-4:30, Service, 4:30-5.
Memorials may be directed to the Des Moines Symphony, United Methodist Committee on Relief, Boston University School of Theology, or the ministry of your choice.
Shoreview Chapel 651-482-7606