John E. Sterwald

John E. Sterwald, 93 of Watertown, passed away on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Heritage Homes in Watertown.

John was born September 20, 1929, in Watertown, the son of William “Bill” and Sadie (Griep) Sterwald. On October 7, 1950, John married Hertha E. Voss at St. John’s Church.  After his health, there was no love more important to John than farming. He was named the “Outstanding Young Farmer” for Watertown Jaycees. He treasured the planting season and seeing what the labors and tillage of the soil brought to the harvest season. John was always interested in ways to improve the land. He was the main builder of the floats that the family designed for 14 years which featured his three grandchildren. They were the joy of his life. John was also involved with research studies at Mayo Clinic.

John is survived by: his wife Hertha; son Quendin (Lana) Sterwald; grandchildren Kevin (Jodi) Sterwald, Kelly (Jake Biggar) Sterwald, and Katie (Mark) Wiechmann; and great-grandchildren Alissa, Alan, Anna, John, Ella, Addison, Mason, Gracie, Faith, Caleb, and Levi. The family extends a special thank you to Sharon Brede for the love and support over the years.

John is preceded in death by: his parents; granddaughter Kari Sterwald; sister-in-law Doris Reese; and 2 brothers, David and one in infancy.

A Funeral Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the Pederson-Nowatka Funeral Home of Watertown. John will be laid to rest at Emmet Cemetery following the service.