John Richard Baird

John Richard Baird

Eldon

John Richard Baird, beloved father, grandfather, and cherished community member, completed his earthly journey on April 7, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on November 17, 1929, in Eldon, Iowa, to a family deeply rooted in the heartland, John lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a love for the simple joys of family and community. He passed away in Coralville, Iowa, succumbing to heart failure with the grace and dignity with which he lived his life.

John was predeceased by his loving wife, Genevieve A. Baird, his son John A. Baird, and his daughter Lois E. Baird. He is survived by his son David R. Baird and his wife Patricia, his daughter Louann E. Davis, his brother Phillip Baird and his wife Linda, his nieces Diane Dallner and her husband Steve, Linda Reder, as well as several grandchildren and stepgrandchildren who will fondly remember his wisdom, faith-filled spirit, and indomitable presence.

A proud graduate of Eldon, Iowa High School, John excelled in speech and public speaking, a skill he further honed at Parsons College. His intellectual curiosity and oratory prowess stayed with him throughout his life, enriching the lives of all who had the privilege of listening to his stories and insights.

John's work ethic was evident early on when he started his career at the tender age of 18 in the Shipping Department of John Deere Ottumwa Works. After 30 years of dedicated service, he retired in 1978, but his industrious spirit could not be stilled. He purchased his first farm near Libertyville, Iowa, in 1956, marking the beginning of a lifelong passion for agriculture. In addition to farming, he forged a successful path with Farm Bureau Insurance Company and Great American Insurance Company as a Crop Adjuster, touching the lives of many in the farming community with his integrity and expertise.

Beyond his professional endeavors, John was an integral member of the Ruritan National Service Club, where his commitment to service and community shone brightly. He was an avid sportsman, known for his time as a forward on his high school basketball team, a beloved pastime that translated into unwavering support for his Iowa Hawkeyes. His competitive spirit was matched by his love for games, whether playing shortstop for his softball team, engaging in a lively game of croquet, yard jarts, or Rook card games, or even delighting in hide and seek with his children after a long day's work.

His interest in sports was rivaled only by his passion for the great outdoors. John loved camping, fishing, and traversing the U.S., always in pursuit of the next great adventure. In the realm of pool and billiards, he was a formidable opponent, having mastered the game under his father's tutelage.

John's life was a testament to the enduring human spirit and the capacity to find joy in every facet of life. In reflection of this, a fitting quote comes to mind: "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs. John certainly loved what he did, and it showed in every aspect of his life.

In remembrance of John Richard Baird, we honor a man of wisdom, faith, and a spirited nature. His legacy is steeped in the values of hard work, family, and a profound connection to the land and community he so dearly loved. As we bid farewell to John, we embrace the memories and the lessons he imparted, and we take comfort in knowing that his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever shall believe in Him shall not perish but will have everlasting life.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at North Liberty Baptist Church, 1215 Jordan St # A-5, North Liberty, IA 52317, with a service to begin at 11:00 AM. A light lunch will follow the service before burial at the Eldon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to North Liberty Baptist Church.