John R. McIntyre, 94
June 29, 1931 - August 19, 2025
John R. McIntyre, a cherished resident of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Ava’s Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family. He was 94 years old.
Funeral Service will be 10:00 am Saturday, August 23, at St. John American Lutheran Church, 1912 W 13th Street, Sioux Falls, SD with burial at Hills of Rest Cemetery, Sioux Falls, SD.
Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be from 5:00 – 7:00 pm Friday, August 22, at Miller Funeral Home Downtown, 507 S. Main Ave., Sioux Falls, SD.
Born on June 29, 1931, in Sioux City, Iowa, John Russell was the beloved son of Raymond “R.C.” and Violette (Greene) McIntyre. His family later relocated to Sioux Falls, where John graduated from Washington High School in 1949. In December of 1948, his unwavering sense of duty led him to enlist in the National Guard, where he dedicated 40 years of service and retired honorably as a Lieutenant Colonel.
On June 14, 1953, John married his soulmate, MaryAnn Dobler, in Tripp, South Dakota. Together, they built a beautiful life in Sioux Falls, welcoming two wonderful sons, Jonathan and Jeffrey, who were a source of great pride and joy for him.
John was deeply committed to education, earning his Bachelor of Arts from Augustana in 1955 and later his Master of Arts from the University of South Dakota in 1962. He pursued further studies at the University of North Dakota and Texas, driven by his passion for learning. For 38 years, he made a profound impact on the lives of countless students as a Middle School Counselor for the Sioux Falls Public Schools, retiring in 1993.
His dedication extended beyond the classroom; John served on numerous boards and committees, including the SDEA Board of Directors and as President of the South Dakota Counseling Association. He was also the President of his local chapter of "Phi Delta Kappa" and the Regional Director for the American Counseling Association. His selfless contributions were recognized with the “Marvin Kemp Award” for service to the state of South Dakota and the Sioux Falls Education “Human and Civil Rights” award. His commitment to his community was evident as he served on the church council, taught at Axtell Park Middle School, and represented his constituents in the South Dakota Legislature for four years, both in the House and the Senate. In the later part of his life, John would say “I get to go to the Banquet”. He spent 20 years serving five days a week to those who could benefit from a good meal and a kind heart. He also looked forward to the annual trip to share gifts and to worship with the Lutheran parish members at the Rosebud Reservation.
John was an active member of the Lions Club, the American Legion, and St. John American Lutheran Church, as well as local and state AARP and SDEA chapters. His legacy of compassion, leadership, and dedication to making a difference will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. John McIntyre leaves behind a lasting impact on his family and community, reminding us all of the importance of service and kindness.
John is survived by his sons, Jonathan R. McIntyre of Portland, ME, and Jeffrey S. (Betsy) McIntyre of Sioux Falls, SD; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren, Amy (Seo) McIntyre and Sara McIntyre (fiancé, John) and her children, Hunter and Marjorie; and a brother, Thomas McIntyre of Boise, ID.
John was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, MaryAnn McIntyre.
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