John Edward Pullin, 81, formerly of Rensselaer, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2016 at The VNA Hospice Residence in Vero Beach, Florida. He was born December 9, 1934 to Joseph Max and Edna Dorothy (Kelpe) Pullin in Pacific, Missouri. He graduated from Rensselaer High School with the class of 1952. On May 27, 1960 he married Cecelia Eileen Ferguson in Key West, Florida.

John served in the Navy for 30 years and retired in 1975 as a Master Chief Boatswain Mate, E9. During his time in the Navy he served in Korea and Vietnam and was highly decorated for his service. After retiring from the Navy, he graduated from St. Joseph’s College and coached the college baseball team for several years.

John and his wife moved to Vero Beach, Florida in 1989. He worked at the Rio Mar Yacht Club in Vero Beach and the Eau Galle Yacht Club in Satellite Beach, Florida. He was a member of the Prairie #125 F&AM Masonic Lodge, as a 32nd Degree Mason, American Legion Post #29 and VFW Post #129, all of Rensselaer.

John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Eileen Pullin; his two sons, Kenneth R. Pullin and Jon D. Pullin; three sisters: Jean Campbell (husband: Bill), Josie Zacher (husband: Cecil “Butch”), and June Lang; two grandchildren, Jace Edward Pullin and Kenzi Rae Zak (husband: Tony); also many friends, including his lifelong friend Walter Arnett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Max and Edna Dorothy (Kelpe) Pullin.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 30, 2016 from 9-11 a.m. (CDT) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. A Masonic service will be held at the funeral home at 10:30 a.m. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Daniel Hester officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow at Weston Cemetery. In lieu of flowers it is requested that memorials be made to the charity of your choice. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.