Jon E. Naramore of Swea City, IA, passed away on Tuesday, November 12th at the age of 74, surrounded by his family in Mankato, MN. He had courageously battled multiple serious health issues over the past couple years, facing them with a smile and optimism.
Jon was born August 22, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois at Loretto Hospital. He is the son of Neil and June (Knupp) Naramore and was raised in Hillside, IL. He briefly studied at EIU before returning home to help support his family. As a young man he worked at Gottlieb in Northlake, IL building pinball machines. Known for figuring out problems, “Dr. Jon” delighted everyone by dressing as Q*bert when the arcade game was released. He later worked many years as a supervisor at Stoughton Trailers, Direct Support at REM, and at Welp.
An amazing soul, Jon was there in a heartbeat for anyone who needed him. He had a strong sense of loyalty and an intense love for his family and friends. The embodiment of love, he transformed lives with his kindness. Those he met were drawn into his circle of love, becoming family and experiencing the beauty of his compassion. His sense of humor and sassiness was one of a kind, always goofing off to make others laugh. His grandchildren always said he was the “fun grandpa”.
He cherished cooking, playing cards with his gang, spending quality time with loved ones, reserving Sundays for football (GO PACK), traveling, and sunsets. He nurtured a deep affection for animals, even caring for a mini-zoo at one point.
Jon is survived by his four children- Tiffany (Michael) Reihl, Bobby (Jenni) Naramore, Becca (Miah) Buchholz, and Sara (Josh) Sweet. He cherished eleven grandchildren (Arista, Zach, Trinity, Tyler, Braylon, Bailey, Spencer, Nevaeh, Parker, Luxie, Ily), two great grandchildren (Karsyn, Jordan), bonus son William Kersten, a dear friend Deb Murphy, and siblings Bob, Paul, Rob, Rick, and Renee.
Jon is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Don, Jerry, Keith, and Kevin.
May you rest in peace, good man.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 from 2pm-5pm at the Summit Center, 304 S Summit Street, Bancroft, Iowa 50517.
