John David Work (2017)
DUFFY, RONAN, WORK
Posted By: Pat Hochstetler (email)
Date: 11/8/2023 at 18:03:06
Des Moines Register
Des Moines, Iowa
March 30, 2017John David Work, 71 years old, loved a good obituary, and preferred straight talk. John Work didn’t pass, and we didn’t lose him….he died on Monday, March 27th, 2017. We just made him laugh. Quick to a smile, quick to mischief, this is the legacy he left to us… It all began August 17, 1945 after his sister Chick Duffy wished upon a star for a little brother. Fortunately for everyone, we were blessed with a gentleman with a magical spirit and unwavering energy for life. He fulfilled the roles of Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Uncle, Granpop, “Jimmy” Pop, Friend, Boss, Doctor, Confidant, and Mentor.
Always moving and going, he loved a good drive to TRIPLE B for the latest “As Seen on TV” kitchen gadgets. And when his stomach got a rumbling, he was off to Noahs for fried chicken and pizza, Micky D’s big breakfast, Bauders egg salad with a chocolate shake. Embers, The Bake Shoppe petit fours, and Star Bar for Lox and capers on a Baguette. At home, a star in the kitchen, he whipped up Buckwheat pancakes for Christmas morning, and the most delicious French Dip ever.
As a dentist, he chewed sugary Doublemint Gum, and enjoyed Laclede breath spray with an alcohol content strong enough to give you a buzz. Generous and kind, he surrounded himself with beauty. Buddha’s, Art, Orchids and plants, he was a constant caretaker of his home, as well as to those he treasured.
Dad’s strength, humor, patience, humility, and passion for life came from his family and tribe of friends.
Married to Patricia Ronan Work for 45 years, they are now reunited to once again love, laugh and believe together. Heaven just got a lot more entertaining.
His legacy continues through his devoted daughter and friend Courtney, granddaughter and Wednesday partner in crime Olivia, Grandson Ian, his “I-man”; son, fishing partner and friend Channing and much-loved daughter-in-law Samantha, and adored grandkids Murray and Emmeline. Protective and fun sister Chick, whom he respected and dear brother-in-law Mike. Cherished nieces and their spouses, Kelly, Laura and Keri, Erin, Bridget and Benji. His work family, the honorable Russ and Z, the “girls” – Erin, Mel, Katie, Tracey, T-Bone, Lyndsey, Tracy, Becky, Beth, Jackie, Cheri, Sue, Lisa, Robin, Laura, Nancy, Deena, Jodee, Ruby and two Jills to name a few. The Tower crew at 3663 Grand who offered him friendship and gave him a place to explore his appetite for Gardening. Canadian fishing Buddies “Fish On!” His lifelong friend, Terrie Lowe and the entire Lowe family, whom he cherished. Hospice nurse “Red”, who lovingly guided him on his final journey.
So many other unique and caring friends it would literally cost a fortune to list you all.
He attended the best schools: Elmwood Elementary, Callanan Middle School, Theodore Roosevelt High School (63) Shout out to the TRHS GANG! A Phi Psi at the University of Iowa for undergraduate and dental school – GO HAWKS!!
The life that John lived will forever be a lesson to all of us, of how we should live a life that isn’t just about yourself, but about those you love.
Whether by a smile, listening, holding the door, sending a handwritten note, picking up the tab, surprising someone with a gift just because, and always laughing. Laughter in the good and most definitely through the bad times.
You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have really lived, are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.
The family will receive friends from 4 – 7 p.m. Friday, April 7th, 2017 at Dunn’s Funeral Home. A celebration of John’s life will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 8th, 2017 at Dunn’s Funeral Home.
Coordinator note: Burial is in St. Patrick Cemetery
Link to Gravestone Photo
Madison Obituaries maintained by Linda Griffith Smith.
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