John "JB" Patrick Britt of Ryan

John “JB” Patrick Britt, 61, of Ryan, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Friday, May 1, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and friendships that stretched far beyond what most could imagine.

Born on June 10, 1964, John grew up with a natural gift for connecting with people, a trait that defined his entire life. He graduated from West Delaware High School in 1982 and went on to build a strong work ethic and career, dedicating years to helping his Uncle Tom farm and 28 years at River Valley Cooperative in Ryan.

On August 23, 2003, John married Kim Krapfl, and together they shared years of life, laughter, and companionship He also held a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs who were never far from his side.

John lived life exactly the way he wanted, full of adventure, humor, and a little bit of mischief. He had a passion for rock collecting, deer and mushroom hunting, and riding his side-by-side through the outdoors he loved so much. You could often find him at a garage sale hunting for his next “treasure”, and adding to his collections of coins.

But more than anything, John loved people. He never met a stranger, just friends he hadn’t talked to yet. Whether it was a quick stop or one of his many phone calls that kept him constantly connected John thrived on relationships. He was a master storyteller, a jokester, and the unofficial creator of countless nicknames that will live on long after him.

Known affectionately for his “deals on wheels”, John had a knack for trading vehicles and finding opportunity in just about anything. He loved playing cards, trying his luck with a little gambling, and simply “BS-ing” with friends.

John was the kind of person who made life better, lighter, and often a lot more entertaining. John’s legacy is not just in the things he collected, but in the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered as someone brought people together, made everyone feel welcome, and could always be counted on for a laugh, or at least a good story.

He was one of a kind, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

John is survived by his wife Kim Britt; his parents Robert and Suzanne Britt; sisters, Kristina (Kris) Brockmeyer, Karen Kent (Jim Marrah), and Kathy Britt; father-in-law, Merlin Krapfl; sisters-in-law, Karen (Gary) Eischen, Kathy Krapfl (Paul Anderson), and Karla (Corey) Thompson. He is also survived by nephews, Casey (Patricia) Kent, Jesse Kent, and Zachary (Kara) Brockmeyer; nieces, Amanda (Matt) Timmerman, Macy and Madison Thompson; and several great-nieces and nephews; and aunts and uncles, Thomas Britt, Jane Britt, Casey and Roslyn Glynn, and Charlotte Gavin, along with many, many cousins.

John was preceded in death by his grandparents, Cyril and Elissa Gavin, and John and Florence Britt; uncle John Gavin and Aunt Carol Gavin, and mother-in-law, Carol Krapfl.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ryan, Iowa, with Reverend Gabriel Anderson officiating.

Rosary: 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 8, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ryan, Iowa.

Visitation:  3:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ryan, Iowa. Friends may also call after 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 8, 2026, at the church.