John W. Greenman

John William Greenman, 69, passed away December 5, 2024 at MercyOne Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.

How do you put into words what someone means to you? John was a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather and brother. He was born January 24, 1955 to DeLoris and Byron Greenman in Mt. Ayr, Iowa.

John worked for many years in the Des Moines area as a painter. He had many loyal clients that called him years later to work for them again. For the past eight years, John worked for Renewal by Andersen. He liked the company, the work, and the fact that he did not have to climb 36-foot ladders any longer. His wife appreciated that also as old bodies don’t bounce very well.

Though he lived most of his life in West Des Moines, John always thought of Mt. Ayr as a special place to unwind and enjoy his favorite pastime which was fishing. His father, Byron, bought a small lot on Loch Ayr where John was fond of telling stories about the summers he spent there with his father, brother Eddie and sister Peggy. John was mischievous and it got him into trouble many a time. He loved telling about the time he put a firecracker inside a cow pile which blew up all over his sister Peggy and the tent they were camping in.

Over the years he kept his sense of humor, but tamed his wild side, though he refused to wear a helmet when riding his motorcycles. He bought a Harley trike this past year telling his wife Angie it was so she would ride with him. She knew that was only an excuse though as he loved to buy motorcycles and cars.

John is survived by his wife, Angie; children, Jolynn Smyth and Chris Greenman; sisters, Peggy Greenman and Penny Loutz; stepchildren, Ryan Olsem, Laura (Ryan) Smith and Sarah (Donny) Daughenbaugh; sister-in-law, Nancy Greenman; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved brother, Eddie.

A celebration of life visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa.

John’s death has left a hole in our family which will never be filled, but our memories and each other will bring us through.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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