John Elmore Godfrey

Dodgeville – John Elmore Godfrey, age 72, of Dodgeville passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022. He was born in Dodgeville, WI on November 27, 1950 to John W. and AnnaMae (Culter) Godfrey. He graduated from Dodgeville High School, graduating in 1969. He served with the U.S. Army from 1971-1975, Active Duty, Active Reserves and reached the Rank of Specialist 5. After returning home he married Helen Ann Reeson on March 10, 1973 at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Ridgeway, WI. He is survived by his wife Helen and 4 children, Bradley his sons Brady and Bronson, Brandon and his son, Brylar, all from Dodgeville, Brent of Butte, Montana and Brittany (Luke) Thatcher and their children, Hughson, Jackson, Liam and Reesann of Spring Green, WI. He is further survived by his sister, Linda Walter of Eagan, MN; his brother-in-law Shane Frenzel; his brothers and sisters-in-law Randy, Rock, Robert, Regina, Reggie (Paula), Ron (Fawn) & Rex (Kim) Reeson, Rose (Jackson) Dobie, Chris (Drew) Cardin & Jennifer (John) Meeker; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, his In-laws Ralph and Helen Reeson, his sisters Sandra Venden, Donna Frenzel and of the Reeson family, Ralph Jr, Robin and Russell. John worked at Jack’s Service Center with his dad and took over the business until it closed in 1995. He also worked for Speedy Delivery, Land’s End, US Census Bureau, trucking businesses and finally driving the Dubuque to Madison route for Lamer’s Bus before retiring. John served on the Dodgeville Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years; like that of his dad and many years as the Chief of Drivers. John was very proud to be a part of three generations of Dodgeville Fireman. Brad continues to serve with over 20 years of service. John also prided himself in his military duties, by example of his uncle, Elmore Godfrey. Elmore was killed in the line of duty in Sicily during WWII and because of John’s persistence, Elmore was memorialized on the Tablets of the Missing and his various medals were eventually awarded to his family. John was excited to travel to Washington D.C. on the Badger Honor Flight with his grandson Brylar. Family was an important part of John’s life. He spent endless hours researching and tracing his family’s genealogy. He was looking forward to his 50th wedding anniversary and lived vicariously through his children and grandchildren’s hunting, fishing and sporting activities. He sadly missed watching his grandkid’s activities the last few years but loved when they visited; he was sure to tease and slip them candy when no one was looking. The family wishes to thank local EMTs, Upland Hills Hospital and VA Health Care for their care and compassion throughout the years. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at the GORGEN-McGINLEY & AYERS FUNERAL HOME in Dodgeville. Pastor Mark Williamson will officiate. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until 10:50 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be held in East Side Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites accorded by the Dodgeville Veterans.

John Elmore Godfrey

November 27, 1950 - December 30, 2022