John (Jack) Sarasio

Jack Sarasio, 89, passed away Sunday, February 2, 2020 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston. Jack was born on May 9, 1930, son of John and Fern (Griffith) Sarasio. Jack attended McKinley Elementary School and graduated from Lincoln High School in January of 1949. After he was out of school for the day and on weekends, he delivered telegrams for Western Union riding his bicycle. He served in the Army in Germany from 1951 – 1953. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Meredith Publishing Co. as a bookbinder for more than 40 years.

His interest in cars led him and a friend to build a stock-car, running it at Pioneer Raceway and at Chariton Raceway. Their car was built on a 1934 Ford Coupe chassis creating a love for ’34 Fords. Years later he restored a ’34 Ford Coupe, a 1925 Model T Ford Roadster, and a 1930 Model A Ford Coupe. The family enjoyed participating in antique car activities and tours. He was a member of the local Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), Early Ford V-8 Club, and Heart of Iowa Model T Club, along with the national clubs of each. Jack and Maralee attended the huge antique swap meet and car show each fall at Hershey, PA for 35 years.

A celebration of life will be at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, February 6, 2020, with visitation one hour prior, at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Pkwy, West Des Moines. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Jack is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maralee, two daughters, Kathleen (Marty) Hobson and Carolyn (Chris) Monahan, and sister, Marilyn Sarasio.

The family thanks his great and caring doctors and their staffs including: Dr. Ryan Tomlinson, Dr. Zeeshan Jawa, Dr. Mark McGaughey, Dr. Mary Radia, and Dr. Glenace Shank. Also thank you to Iowa Methodist ER, the nursing staff and all other staff on Powell 4, and Nurse Mark and his staff at Mercy Hospice.

Memorials can be distributed to Mercy One Hospice In-Patient, 5820 Winwood Drive, Johnston, IA 50131; Stoddard Cancer Center, 1415 Pleasant Street, Ste. 200, Des Moines, IA 50309; Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Iowa Chapter, 1730 28th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265; or Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 5452 NE 22nd Street, Des Moines, IA 50313.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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