John A. Taft, 75, of Cascade, Iowa passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa with a memorial service to commence at 7 p.m.

John was born June 17, 1951, in Marshalltown, Iowa, son of Calvin and Irene (Kelly) Taft. He married Marilyn A. Koopmann on July 6, 1974, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa. John worked at A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing until his retirement in 2000. Following his retirement, he continued to work as needed for the Bergfeld family’s trucking business.

John Taft, lovingly known as JT, was a beloved husband, dad, and uncle, a proud grandpa, and a man whose greatest joy was his family. He had a special passion for trains, finding joy in all things railroad related. His love of trains became a meaningful part of who he was and created lasting memories for those who shared in his interests.

Family was the center of JT’s world. He treasured time spent together, sharing stories, laughter, and memories with the people who meant the most to him. A wonderful storyteller, JT had a way of bringing moments to life and making time together special. He was much more than a dad and grandpa; he was a source of love, comfort, and unwavering pride for his family.

Of all the blessings in his life, his grandchildren were among his greatest treasures. JT took great pride in each of them and made every effort to attend their events and be present for the important moments in their lives. Whether cheering them on, sharing a story, or offering his familiar “joke of the day,” he found special ways to bring smiles to their faces and let them know how much they were loved. His love for his children, grandchildren, and extended family was evident in the time and care he gave so freely.

John enjoyed the beauty of the fall season and taking scenic drives to admire nature. He especially enjoyed deer and rabbit hunting.

John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marilyn; children: Jennifer Smith of Moline, IL, Dawn (Brian) Deutmeyer of Worthington, Conor (Amber) Taft of Cascade; grandchildren: Samantha (Tyler) Johnson, Austin (Olivia) Johnson, Colton Johnson, Gavin and Bryce Reiter, Peyton and Caden Taft, Mackenzie, Lauren, and Bentley Deutmeyer, Peyton and Caden Taft; great-grandchildren: Audrey, Remmington, Wyatt, and Margaret; siblings: Connie (Brian) Hartbecke, Kathy (Fred) Hartbecke, Peggy Taft; in-laws: Mary Ann Kelly, Phyllis (Phil) Mausser, Nancy (Tom) Kramer, Cindy (Randy) McDermott, Chris (Sherry) Koopmann, Roger Koopmann, Lu (Tim) Cox, Linda (Ted) Besler, Mike (Kim) Koopmann, Leonard (Jody) Koopmann, Dean (Jennifer) Koopmann, Sheila (John) Beringer, Tim (Shelly) Koopmann, Donnie (Reyne) Koopmann 

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Mason Deutmeyer; parents; parents-in-law, Donald and Margaret Koopmann; siblings: Dan Kelly, Dianne Taft; and several nieces and nephews.

John’s love for his family and appreciation for the simple things in life will remain a lasting part of his legacy. He was a beloved dad and uncle, proud grandfather, and a man who cherished his family above all else. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

May the colors of fall, the familiar sounds of trains, and the enduring love of family always remind us of John and the special place he will forever hold in our hearts.

The family would like to thank the staff at Above & Beyond Hospice in Monticello for their compassionate care.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.