Columbus, OH — John Roberts Reese, 73, died Jan. 29, 2024, in Corning, Iowa.

He was born March 14, 1950, the second child born to Helen Roberts and Raymond Reese. He grew up on the family farm north of Corning, and although a childhood accident hindered him from many activities, he was able to graduate from Corning High School in 1968. He went on to receive his bachelor’s and masters degrees in history from Northwest Missouri State.

Mr. Reese had a love for horses that was nurtured by his dad, who raced Standardbreds. He became very good at the sport and won many races in Iowa, the Quad Cities, Chicago area, and St. Louis area where he met his wife, Dinah. He became very well known in the racing world, and served as driver for many stables as well as his own which included Big Key and Hap Bob Bobby, two of his favorites. He drove the winner in his first race and ended his career with a final win.

In 2009, he was inducted into the Iowa Harness Horseman’s Hall of Fame.

He will be greatly missed by his wife, Dinah, and dog, Queenie. He is survived by his siblings, Jeanie (Gordon) Greer, Jim,  Janet Reese Goodson and Judi Julian (Kimm); nieces, Rebecca, Britany, and Rachelle; nephews, Andrew, Kort, Colin, Drew, and Erinn; and eight grandnephews and grandnieces. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; and half-sister, Nancy Adams.

Visitation will be on Friday (Feb. 2) from 9:30-10:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. at Pearson Funeral Home with Rev. LeAnn Robine officiating. Burial will follow the service at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Corning.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the John Reese Memorial Fund, to be established, would be appreciated.