John Sylvester Bagley

John Sylvester Bagley

Cedar Rapids

John Sylvester Bagley, lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids passed away Sunday, June 25, 2023 at University of Iowa Hospital following a motorcycle accident. He left us doing something that he loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Sara Peters Bagley, and his loving son, Brice, of Des Moines. His siblings, Ray Bagley (Candy) and Judy Bagley Curley (Bill), mourn this loss as do numerous relatives, nephews and nieces. John’s parents, Raymond Bagley and Dorothy Mulcahey, Bagley preceded him in death.

John was born on Oct. 26, 1954. His wonderful spirit and talents were evident from that day forward.

He enjoyed many accomplishments throughout his youth. He was proud to be captain of the swim team at Kennedy High School. He competed at state each year. He tried out for the Junior Olympics. John did several RAGBRAI rides. His brother, Ray, joined him on two of them.

He enjoyed his many travels with his wife Sara. They travelled throughout the United States visiting family and friends. John studied photography at Kirkwood. He became a talented artist in that genre, receiving first place for his photograph titled, “The Mrs.” John was an accomplished mechanic. He could fix anything and many times fabricated parts from scratch for the bikes and motorcycles that he restored. He was trained to rebuild, refurbish and restore all things mechanical during his years employed by the city of Cedar Rapids. This talent opened up the inventor in John and culminated in his complete restoration of a Honda XL350 motorcycle that resided in the permanent collection of the Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa until it closed.

John had 32 years of continuous sobriety upon his passing. John was known for his stories and humor. He was a jester of sorts; witty, entertaining and looking for the punchline to all his tales. His family named him the “Mayor of F. Avenue” for the goodwill he spread in his neighborhood. He was behind the scenes in his community, fixing bikes and toys from estate sales and thrift shops then later donating them to various charities. We will miss him forever and hold him in our hearts.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

At John’s request there will be a family gathering at a later date. Rest in peace.

Teahen Funeral Home and Cremation is serving the family.

Online condolences can be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com.