John Joseph Nachtman

John Joseph Nachtman, 81, of Manchester, Iowa, formerly of Ryan, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2017, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home, surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was born on July 31, 1935, at Sand Springs, the son of Louis F. and Leona (Greiner) Nachtman. John was raised and educated in the Ryan and Manchester area. He assisted his father on the family farm for many years.

On October 16, 1956, John was united in marriage to Caroline Schwers at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna. Nine children were born to this union. The couple farmed in the Ryan area until 1994, when they retired to Manchester.

John was a longtime member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ryan, a current member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed fishing and puzzles. But most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family. In retirement, John enjoyed interior painting and traveling with his wife, Caroline.

Survivors include John’s wife of  60  years, Caroline (Schwers) Nachtman of Manchester; his seven children, Gerald (Judy) Nachtman and Richard (Mary) Nachtman, both of Manchester, Elaine (Kevin) Klosterman of Greeley, Delores (David) Hermsen of Dyersville, Rose (Nathan) Ronnebaum of Edgewood, Alan (Marcia) Nachtman of Manchester, and Lois (Roger) Brehm of Earlville; twenty-two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his siblings, Sister Mildred Nachtman, O.S.F., of Dubuque, Edith Schwers of Anamosa, and Arthur Nachtman of Ryan; and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; two infant daughters, Mary Ann and Grace Ann; four sisters, Sister Loretta Nachtman, O.S.F, Esther Linden, and Rosella and Anita (infants); and a brother, Harold Nachtman.

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