John was born on September 14, 1942, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of John Joe and Agnes Josephine (Matula) Sotyn.

He graduated from Toledo High School in 1961.

On March 20, 1964, he was united in marriage to Marlene Benner in Toledo, Iowa.

John worked for thirty-eight years for Kiowa Corporation in Marshalltown, where he was a set up man and also a machinist. John retired in 2003. He enjoyed fishing, hunting deer and coon, and the outdoors. If it was broke he could fix it. John enjoyed spending time with his friends and having a drink with them.

Survivors include his wife and the love of his life of fifty-three years, Marlene of Toledo; one son, John Michael Sotyn of Marshalltown; two grandchildren, Jessica Ann Sotyn and John David Sotyn both of Utah; one sister, Dorothy (Wayne) Alexander of Toledo; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents; and one son, David Lee Sotyn.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama is assisting the family with the arrangements.