John Neff

John and JoAnne stopped by the park office at Palisades one day when I was the ranger. They were inquiring about temporary work to keep John busy after his recent retirement. I explained that we needed him, wanted him and would see what I could do to make it work. It was JoAnne who said “he’ll take it”. That started a relationship that became the most memorable positive experience in my 50 years of conservation management with an employee. John was talented, punctual, and kind at every turn. He was so energetic that the college interns he worked with all said he set the pace and standard that they felt challenged to meet. When autumn arrived and John had to be laid off for the winter he would take four days to get their house, garage and grounds ready for winter at home. Then, he would show up at 8:00 a.m. with lunch pail in hand, to volunteer 8-hour days the remainder of the winter, until we could hire again. He would plow snow, repair picnic tables, cut trees, etc., the entire winter. This routine repeated itself for the next 12 years.

John was recognized by Iowa’s governor as volunteer of the year. But it was John’s compassion for “The Pal”, as all locals and John referred to the park, that was on exhibit every day in every way. It seemed he couldn’t get enough. I have worked with and supervised hundreds of employees but never had one that was so committed to the job and yet so kind and gracious as John Neff. In addition to being such a remarkable employee John was the most compassionate and genuine human being I have known.

Barbara, Joe, Bill and Cisco; I have heard all about you and met you only a couple times but you have my deepest sympathy. You are so fortunate to have had John in your life. I too, am blessed to have had him touch my life in such a profound way.

Jerry Reisinger