John M. Moon, 71, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on September 18, 2025. Born on September 15, 1954, in Evanston, Illinois, John spent his formative years in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
He was a devoted husband to Sonia and a loving father to Sarah and Ben. Known for his unwavering patience, generosity, and compassion, John dedicated his life to serving others.
John spent 40 years with the Department of Veterans Affairs, where he was admired for his commitment to veterans, his skill in mediation, and his mentorship of colleagues. Prior to that, he served four years in the United States Air Force. His sense of duty continued throughout his life—first as a police officer, then as a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), where he championed the rights of children in the court system. He also served on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), trained to assist in times of crisis.
John’s lifelong devotion to service earned him the affectionate nickname “The Rev.” Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and passions.
Though he preferred to stay out of the spotlight, John’s life deserves to be celebrated. He brought joy and connection to those around him—whether through adventures, playful toys, thoughtful conversations, or well-timed jokes. His warm and welcoming spirit made everyone feel seen and loved. He gave freely of his time and talents, always putting others first.
John’s adventurous soul was evident in his hobbies. He loved hiking, camping, skiing, and traveling. He was passionate about sailing and studied at the Wooden Boat School in Maine, later working on several wooden boats. He found peace in birdwatching and being immersed in nature.
John is survived by his wife, Sonia Moon of Lawrence, KS; daughter Sarah and her husband Rick Powers; son John (Ben) and his wife Megan Moon; four stepsons: Lalo and his wife Lacey Cazares; Jorge and his wife Aimee Cazares; Sergio Cazares; and Emmanuel and his wife McKenzie Cazares; nine beautiful grandchildren; his mother, Marilyn Moon; sister Nancy and her husband Rick Killmer; as well as many dear friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruth Moon, and his father, John F. Moon.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 2pm at First Christian Church, 1000 Kentucky Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. Graveside services with military honors will follow at approximately 3pm at Oak Hill Cemetery, 1605 Oak Hill Ave, Lawrence, KS 66044. A reception will be held at approximately 4pm at First Christian Church.
In tribute to John’s proud Scottish heritage and his love of comfort and connection, guests are invited to wear plaid or flannel to the service
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to one of the following organizations:
ALS Association at www.als.org/?form=general&s_src=donatebutton
Paralyzed Veterans of America at https://secure.pva.org/pva/donation-form-backup
We find comfort in knowing that John’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
Online condolences may be shared at www.rumsey-yost.com
John was my CASA volunteer for over 3 years. He was one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I’ve ever worked with or met. It’s such a cliche, but he genuinely made the world a better place. Although I knew him for a relatively short time, I admired how he cared for his community and its more vulnerable members. His patience and curiosity made him an excellent volunteer and I have missed and will miss him.
So very sorry to hear of John passing. John was always a joy to talk to and was always a most pleasant person to be with. Condolences to Ben and Sarah and all the family. We are very sorry to have missed his service, we were out of town. Thoughts to you all as John will truly be missed.
I’m so sorry to hear about this. John and I spent several days together, working on the labyrinth at our church. I enjoyed his company very much. There are some shots of him working on our website still. This is how I’ll remember him – a great guy who didn’t hesitate to do a bunch of hard work to benefit others. https://graceumc.church/grace-labyrinth-construction/
In the short amount of time we got to know him, he was a joy and inspiration to me and my crew. Everybody wanted to come work for him and Sonia. Very pleasant and accommodating. Always positive. A great man. We wish we we had more time with him.
John hired me in 2004 at the VA in Leavenworth, KS. He was so kind, fair, and an all around great person. I am still with VA-21 years in-and hope that he always knew how many lives he made better while fighting for veterans at VA. Many prayers and much love to the family.
My love goes to each of you……
John was certainly one of a kind….I loved his sense of humor and love for life. He loved his family so very much. We were fortunate to have him in our life. Much love and many prayers…..Theresa
It was an honor to be a part of your and Sonia’s care team. Thank you.