John Cords

John Dale Cords, 88, of Rochester, gained his wings, Friday May 9, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Methodist Campus, surrounded by family; and now he flies amongst the angels!

John was born February 5, 1937, in Rochester, MN to Carl and Inez (Swanson) Cords. John grew up in Rochester and graduated from Rochester Senior High School in 1956. He attended business college for two years and then was drafted into the Army in 1958-1962. John was united in marriage to the love of his life, Donna Tebay, on November 27, 1960.

John loved bowling and his abilities led him to being inducted as a member of the Southern Minnesota Bowing Hall of Fame. His passion and enthusiasm for the sport crafted him as a leading pioneer in the sport of bowling. John's highest game was a 298 at one of the toughest bowling centers in the country. John's love for bowling undeniably trickled down to his kids. During his lifetime his full-time jobs included: Great Northwestern Railroad, Libby's, and RPU. John also held many part-time jobs along with his full-time jobs!

John is survived by his wife, of 64 years, Donna; 5 children, Randy (Darlene) Cords of Rochester, Monica Corona of Littleton, CO, Jeff Cords of Rochester, Cathy Jones of Mantorville and Vicky (Mark) Rose of New Richmond, WI; 8 grandchildren, Cyrus (Sarah) Cords, Dillon (Kristen) Cords, Cullen (Anne) Cords, Nick (Britany) Corona, Brittany (Joe) Shapiro, Shane Cords, Carissa Rose, and Corey Rose; 11 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and many other extended family members.

The funeral service for John will be at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 22 at Maxon Family Cremation and Life Celebrations, with Pastor Laurie Boche officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Maxon Family Cremation and Life Celebrations and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens. Online condolences are welcome and may be shared at maxonfamilycremation.com.