John M. Pestal
June 16, 1928 – May 18, 2024
John was born and raised in Omaha and his family lived across the street from Buffet Grocery Store. John and Warren shoveled snow for Warren’s grandfather and earned 50 cents a day.
He graduated from Benson High School where he excelled in many sports. John was drafted into the Army and served in the Korean War from 1950-1951. He proudly served his country and became a member of the American Legion Post #1 and served on the Honor Guard for 40 years. After the war, he and his father barbered in Dundee for 43 years.
He continued to play many sports throughout his life, and he started a Little League Soccer in Omaha. John was known as Father Soccer to many and was inducted into the Benson Hall of Fame as well as the Nebraska Soccer Hall of Fame.
John was an avid checker player who won 12 state championships. He loved to play and talk checker strategy with anyone who was interested.
John and Betty spent their winters in Arizona where they made many lasting friendships and fond memories when “snow birding.”
He was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church in Benson where he ushered for 60 years. John will be remembered as a caring and humble person who worked hard his entire life.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Betty; son, Johnny; brother, Bob.
He is survived by his wife, Betty; son Todd (Kim); granddaughter, Rebecca; sister, Mary Griego; 4 step-grandchildren; 4 step-great-grandchildren.
Visitation: Thursday, May 23rd from 4-6PM at West Center Chapel with a Prayer Service at 6PM.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 24th, 10:30AM at St. Paul United Methodist Church (5410 Corby Street).
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Paul United Methodist Church, American Legion Post #1 or the Nebraska Soccer Association.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
8 Comments
To a fellow Benson bunny and very special friend!
I already miss you my friend. I met you when I was only 7 years old and throughout life our paths continued to cross. I was thinking about you this week as a matter of fact, when I used that dustpan you made for me out of a license plate! You have always been a special friend and I dearly hope to see you again one day. God’s blessings for you John and for Betty! I’m sorry I didn’t try harder to see you in the past few years. No matter, the love of a dear friend never dies. ❤️
Yes, John was caring and humble. He also had a good sense of humor and ready laugh. About 60 years ago, John bought Johnny and I malts after a high school football game. When I asked Mr. Pestal how much I owed him, he quipped, “100 dollars.” I still smile when I remember that. God bless.
With arms around in warmth and care during this difficult time Todd. Mary Jo, Tom, Barb and Denny send their sincere condolences.
So sorry to hear about Uncle John passing away.
He will be missed, always remember the great times when we’re younger and he would come to Albion with the family to visit…
The Fisher kids
Janet, the twins Joyce and Judy
and Danny
Thinking of you and your family at this time. Remembering all the times I watched you and Dad playing Soccer. Your tremendous contribution to the sport in Omaha will not be forgotten. To a gentle giant, my prayers are with you. Hope you and Dad are having a great reunion.
Todd, sorry to read about your Dad. I remember him from the late 80s when I was in Omaha. Take Care Woody
John was an Army “brother” from the Korean War. He and Betty attended our annual Korean reunions, It was an Honor and privilege to know John these many years and have him as a friend! He is in our prayers and will be greatly missed!
I knew John from his winters in Arizona. He was one of the nicest people you could meet John cut hair right up to the time he left Arizona and returned to Nebraska. He was a friend and will be missed.
Sign Guestbook