John Verworn
John Verworn passed away on September 15, 2022, in Plano, Texas. He was born on the family homestead north of New Leipzig, ND on June 24, 1942, to John and Emma (Sprecher) Verworn. There were many stories of working on the farm and taking a buggy to a one room schoolhouse. He graduated from the University of North Dakota, where he and wife Phyllis started dating. His career started with International Harvester in the farm equipment division, moving to heavy mining then road construction equipment. Through the years the company changed to Dresser, Komatsu and then leaving to join Compaction America. Work moved him all over the United States including ND, CO, MN, IL, OH, and TX in various management roles, taking him around the globe and introducing different cultures to his family. He earned his MBA from the Lake Forest School of Management.
John was active in his son’s lives, participating in Boy Scouts, Indian Guides, and camping. The family took many road trips across the country. He was active with the Lutheran church everywhere he lived, and Via de Cristo. John was always a member of a gym, liked to go on long bicycle rides, golfing, and was sure to take a long walk in the evening. He loved to BBQ on his Texas offset smoker, growing vegetables and hostas, visiting family and hunting pheasant in ND. He was a prolific reader, and enjoyed discussing current events.
When he retired, John and Phyllis purchased a fifth wheel and started traveling the country. Sadly Phyllis passed away in 2006. John spent much of his time volunteering, helping out at the local hospital by taking patients to and from their cars, mowing the local Boy Scout campground, and was also a member of Kiwanis and Lions. Leo, his grandson, brought John so much joy.
John is survived by son Michael (Dorette) and Grandson Leo of Dallas TX, son Jonathan (Jennifer) of Columbus OH, two brothers Wilbert of Fargo, ND and Ronald of Glen Ullin, ND, two sisters Marcella of Kokomo, IN and Ardella of Ham Lake, MN. John was preceded in death by his parents and wife Phyllis.
John will be cremated, and services determined at a later time.