John (Jack) Altman

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John (Jack) Altman, age 89, of Rock Rapids, Iowa, died Sunday, August 23, 2026, at his home.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 27th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, with the family present, at the First Reformed Church in Rock Rapids, Iowa.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the First Reformed Church in Rock Rapids, Iowa, with Pastor Steve Van Wyhe officiating.

Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Rock Rapids, Iowa, with military honors by Rex Strait American Legion Post No. 103 and Van Anne-Fields VFW Post 6960.

Arrangements are in the care of the Jurrens Funeral Home of Rock Rapids.

John (Jack) Altman was born on May 7, 1937, in Lismore, Minnesota, to John and Tena Altman. He grew up with strong Midwestern values and attended George Iowa High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and began building the foundation of the hardworking, devoted man he would become.

Jack’s first job was at Cities Service Gas Station before he proudly served in the Iowa National Guard from 1959 to 1965. His commitment to service was reflected in his character.

Jack met the love of his life, Esther Weerheim, and the two were married on September 6, 1961, surrounded by family and friends at the First Reformed Church in Rock Rapids. They built their life together in Rock Rapids, where they lived side by side for 65 years. They were looking forward to celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary on September 6, 2026.

Jack worked at Prahls Firestone, Montgomery Wards, Weerheim Trucking, and R & R Trucking. He later purchased Weerheim Trucking from his father‑in‑law and expanded it into J & J Stockliners. He also co‑founded C & J Sanitation with Chuck Hoekstra, eventually selling the business to his younger brother, Denny. Jack spent many years over the road trucking with his Peterbilt and reefer trailer, hauling for Schuster’s and Blue Bunny. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.

Jack and Esther loved traveling with friends and family. They often packed a couple of suitcases, got in the pickup, and simply drove—no plan, no schedule, just adventure. They visited countless states, made spontaneous stops to see friends and family, and created memories filled with laughter. They made frequent trips to Waseca and Waukee to visit their children and watch their grandchildren’s activities. Jack was deeply proud of his grandchildren and loved every moment spent with them.

The couple also cherished summers at their lake condo in Okoboji, where they enjoyed family gatherings and time with friends. Jack’s favorite phrase—“Just one more”—captured his spirit perfectly. When he was having fun, he never wanted the day to end.

Jack was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa — proud, loving, spiritual, and deeply caring. As a longtime member of the First Reformed Church, he lived his faith through his actions, offering kindness, encouragement, and steady support to everyone around him. He made those in his presence feel valued, welcomed, and truly seen.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Tena; father, John; and brother, Denny. He is survived by his wife, Esther Altman; son Todd, married to Patty Altman of Waseca, MN; daughter Tami, married to Denis Frischmeyer of Waukee, IA; grandchildren Jordan, married to Kaylee, Kaitlin, and Megan; great‑grandchild Rory; and other extended family.

Jack’s legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply, the friendships he cherished, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication.

We appreciate all the love, prayers, and support for our family. Thank you!