John G. Wells

John G. Wells, age 82, of Boone, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 15, 2026, at UnityPoint-Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA.  To honor John’s life, private family service is being held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving John’s family.

John was born on October 30, 1943, in Leeds, AL, a son to Roy and Pollie (Garrett) Wells.  After graduation from high school, John went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Upon returning home, John returned to Birmingham Southern College where he continued his education in pre-engineering. John moved to San Diego where he worked and studied Architecture and Engineering.  John spent the majority of his working career as a civil engineer with the San Diego County Padre Dam.  His time and talents were graciously shared with the community until he eventually retired.

John eventually met the love of his life, Irene L. “Tootsie” Banta and the two were united in marriage on August 10, 2011.  They were blessed with 14 wonderful years together until Banta was sadly called home ahead of him in 2025.  John’s love and devotion were unwavering and when he wasn’t at work, he was making sure that anything he could do to put a smile on Tootsie’s face was being addressed consistently.

In his free-time, John enjoyed traveling and moving from city to city.

Those left to cherish the memory of John include,

his brothers,

Roy D. (Laura) Wells, Jr., Birmingham, AL,

and Francis (Ann) Wells, Birmingham, AL;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

John was preceded in death by his parents; and his beautiful bride of 14 years, Irene “Tootsie” Wells. 

John’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with John’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com