John Leonard Maher

John (Jack) Leonard Maher was born October 12, 1932, to John and Hilda (Leonard) Maher in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from the Newton Senior High School with the class of 1952. Jack served his country in the United States Army.

Jack graduated from Drake University and then earned his master’s degree from Oklahoma State University. He married Marilyn Kelly on June 27, 1959, at Sacred Heart Church in Newton, Iowa. Jack completed 26 years of teaching history at Hinsdale Central High School in Hinsdale, Illinois. He was known for his love of old cars and working around his house and yard, and in his retirement, he spent time with treasured friends and family.

Jack passed away September 28, 2025, at the age of 92. He is preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn.

Jack is survived by daughters, Michelle Maher (Richard Smart) and Stacia (Tom) Reader, sister and brother-in-law, Patricia (Clare) Patterson, and granddaughters, Matilda and Eloise Reader.

A Visitation with the family will begin at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home in Newton. A public Rosary service will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a graveside service to follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Newton, Iowa. Memorials may be designated to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and may be left at Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home.