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John Randall Wilson, a lifelong farmer and member of the Clearfield community, passed away peacefully March 7, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by family.
Born in Creston on Feb. 18, 1948, to Randall and Vida (Leonard) Wilson, John’s life was a testament to the values of faith, family and hard work. From an early age, John’s life on the farm between Clearfield and Lenox taught him the value of hard work. In country school and Clearfield Community School, he was known for his athleticism, particularly in football, graduating in 1966.
John’s pursuit of education took him to Iowa State University, where he studied agriculture until he left just a semester shy of graduation to get his hands dirty farming alongside his dad and brothers. On June 21, 1969, John married Patricia Arlene Brown at the Clearfield Methodist Church. Their journey of over 54 years blessed them with two daughters, Janie and Joni, and a legacy of integrity and kindness.
He faced life, including a serious farm accident, with optimism and wisdom. He often reminded his daughters, “Tomorrow’s a new day.” John’s life reflected his inventiveness through developing new farming tools, creating cherished woodworking treasures for his family and experimenting with crops like popcorn, white corn and waxy corn. He was proud to celebrate the recognition of their family farm as a Century Farm at the Iowa State Fair in 2021.
John was a member of the Lenox Stock and Saddle Club and an avid horseman. His adventurous spirit took him across Iowa on a bicycle for RAGBRAI and to the Medicine Bow Mountains of Wyoming every summer with dear lifelong friends.
The center of John’s world was his faith in Jesus Christ. He was a founding member of Area Bible Fellowship, where he served as an elder. He was often found in the driver’s seat of the Awana bus, ensuring no child missed the opportunity to learn and grow in their faith.
John’s legacy is carried on by his wife, Pat; daughters, Janie (Craig) David and Joni (Jason) Roberts; grandchildren: Logan (Kaela), Dillan, Taylynn, Chloe, Naomi, Ella, Anna, Corbin, John, Lily and Esther and siblings: Gayle Rhea Hawley, Louise Ellis, Doyle, Wayne, Haldean and Jim.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Ricky and Fred.
John’s legacy is one of enduring love and steadfast faith. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9 at Area Bible Fellowship in Clearfield. The family suggests donations be made to Area Bible Fellowship. Special thanks to EveryStep Hospice.