John Henry Dirth Jr.

John Henry Dirth Jr., 90, of Burlington, died at 6:53 AM Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at Aspire of Donnellson.

Born April 22, 1932, in Burlington, IA, he was the son of John Henry and Hulda Timmerman Dirth. On May 28, 1955, he married Mary Janet Deiling in West Burlington. 

He graduated from Burlington High School in 1950. John graduated from Western Illinois with his Bachelor's Degree in education.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War from October 14, 1952 until September 23, 1954.

John was in education his whole life, up until his retirement. After retiring, he worked for Hope Haven. 

Sports were a huge part of John's life. He officiated for volleyball, softball, football, and basketball in the Southeast Iowa and Illinois area for over 50 years. John officiated for all age levels and once one sport finished, it was on to the next. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye and Dodgers fan. 

Survivors include his wife, Mary Janet Dirth of Burlington; three sons, Chris Dirth of Burlington, Nick Dirth of Burlington, and Todd Dirth of Burlington; three daughters, Caren Luttenegger of Burlington, Nita Carlson of Burlington, and Tara Dirth of Burlington; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and one brother.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

The rosary will be prayed for John at 10:30 AM Monday, June 6, 2022, at SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington. 

The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mr. Dirth will be 11:00 AM Monday, June 6, 2022, at SS. Mary and Patrick Catholic Church, West Burlington with Very Rev. Father Marty Goetz as the Celebrant.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard.  Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, West Burlington.

A memorial has been established to the Burlington Notre Dame Foundation.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.