John L. Mihalovich
July 25, 2010
On July 25, 2010, John Mihalovich, 63, got his passport to the greatest lakes and hunting spots to be found anywhere. After working hard his whole life, he’s finally taking it easy and living his dream of hunting and fishing non-stop; although, we suspect he’s helping out God with maintenance issues; sort of HIS handyman.
John was born in Des Moines on March 13, 1947 to Jennie and Louie Mihalovich. He was a man’s man but also had a big heart for people less fortunate than himself and always helped when he heard of someone in need. He was an avid bowler, golfer, diver, ice-skater, pool shark, softball player, car lover, guardian of cats, landscaper, bow hunter and fisherman. Over the years he worked hard to create a home that he was proud of and enjoyed sharing it with friends. He was funny, outgoing, brave, strong, kind and loved life.
John worked for the Des Moines Fire Dept. for 32 years and retired as District Chief. He worked for Dewey Ford prior to his death where he enjoyed the people and the camaraderie as much as his job. He also worked for Yellow Jacket Construction for many years where he was Head Drone and MFIC.
John is survived by his wife of 36 years, Diane; daughter, Jennifer; son, Zach; granddaughters, Anna, Katie, and Alex. Preceding John in death were his parents, Jennie and Louie and his brother, Mike.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 30, 2010 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave, Des Moines with burial to follow at Cory Grove Cemetery in Elkhart. Friends may visit with family from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday, July 29, 2010 at the funeral home.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the family in loving memory of John.
Online condolences to:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Linda Jarrells
08/10/2010
Diane and Family,
We just received word today from Mom of John's death. I am so sorry to hear this. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May each of you feel God's loving arms around you and may you draw on His strength to get you through.
Love, Linda and Roger Jarrells
Steve Rodda
08/04/2010
To all of John's family and friends, my deepest sympathies are with you during this time that was so unexpected. He will be in my prayers just as he is in my memory. John was always someone we could depend upon at all times. As a youngster in the crazy days of running the window at McDonald's, John was a great mentor and guide. He was such for many of us on and off the job. We measured ourselves against the best in the city. If you could get close to keeping up with him, you knew you had made it to the top level.
As the comments about his life indicate, John was a great example of living your life in all the ways you found it interesting. He was always checking on us to see just how we were doing. I appreciated his guidance and direction. I had not seen John for many years. The smile was such a great reminder of a wonderful man.
God Bless, Steve
Keith & Melody Felton
07/29/2010
Diane and Family,
Please accept out deepest sympathy. We are so sorry we will be unable to attend
services. Keith is in Oklahoma City, working and I'm at Table Rock.
Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Keith & Melody Felton
Steve Loughry
07/28/2010
Diane and Family, We are praying and thinking about you during this time.
Deb Brannian
07/29/2010
I only knew John for two years, these last two years that I have worked at Dewey Ford. I have worked at the cashiers desk most of that time, and I have to say that I was always happy to see John here. He always had a smile on his face and was truly one of the most happy, kind, fun and hardworking guys around here. We will all miss him terribly. You are in my prayers.
Kim Bebout (Relitz)
07/28/2010
Diane,
I am so sorry to hear about your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Kim
Grace Crawford DeWitt
07/28/2010
Diane and family,
I am so sorry I cannot be there. I am. In Oaklahoma City and will not return until Friday night. please know my prayers are with you all. I never saw John without a smile on his face. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met. We graduated from East High together.
I pray that you will truly feel the Lord's presence and comfort during this time.
rick hartshorn
07/28/2010
what a nice guy-i will miss him-sorry for your loss
Kandi Petersen
07/28/2010
Mrs. Miholovich -- I do not know if you remember me, but I used to be married to Steve Jasper, a retired DM firefighter. He introduced me to you both a long time ago. Please accept this as my most sincere sympathies for you and your family.
I believe John's family used to live around the corner from us on Belmar in Des Moines years ago. I still leave at East 38th Court and Leydon.
Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
Marquita Marrero
07/28/2010
I am so sorry Diane for you and your family's loss. I will be saying a prayer that God will help you through this difficult time in your lives.
Kathy Lydon
07/28/2010
Diane and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robert Ault Family
07/28/2010
Diane,Zack & Family,
So very sorry to hear of your loss. It is a shock to everyone but I feel the best way to go when it is our time, in our sleep. You will meet again and I hope can find peace in knowing he is healthy and happy where he is now. Your great memories and the great things John has done will help you through. On the very hard days remember God and friends are here for you when you need them.
Sincerely,
Robert & Peg Ault
Brian Ault
Stephanie & Wrigley Reynolds
Bob Froah
07/26/2010
My deepest sympathy goes out to Dianne for her loss of John. I often think of him and all the fun we had while working at station 4 together. John was a good friend and will be greatly missed. Bob "Jr"