Edward “E.J.” Squire
October 26, 1953 – July 14, 2026
Edward James “E.J.” Squire, age 72, of Durant, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his home.
A memorial service with a time of sharing will begin at 12 noon, Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Durant American Legion. A celebration of life luncheon will be held following the service until 2:30 p.m. at the legion. Burial will take place at a later date in Inland Cemetery, Bennett, Iowa. Memorials may be made to YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln in his memory. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Born on October 26, 1953, in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Everette and Janet (Copeland) Squire. He graduated from Davenport Central High School with the Class of 1972 before continuing his education at Central College in Pella, Iowa, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management in 1976. During his college years, E.J. embraced campus life, participating in Phi Delta Tau Fraternity, Greek Council, Student Council, and International Studies. Outside the classroom, he became something of a local legend as a foosball expert, enjoying friendly competition with friends. On August 31, 2003, E.J. married the love of his life, Jacquelyn Walter, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Davenport.
E.J. dedicated his professional career to John Deere Parts Distribution Center in Milan, Ill., where he worked as an Inspector until his retirement in 2018. Retirement allowed E.J. to devote even more time to the things he loved most, especially at YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln, serving on the advisory board. Golf was his greatest passion, and he was proud to co-found allgolfqc.com alongside his close friend, Craig “Mac” McCullough.
Above all else, E.J. treasured his family and lived his life guided by a strong Christian faith. His greatest happiness came from spending time with his grandsons, creating unforgettable adventures through scavenger hunts and water fights. He also deeply valued many family gatherings, the friendships that enriched his life, especially outings with his “Farmer Friends” for dinners, drinks, and good conversation, as well as regular lunches with his close circle of friends.
E.J. will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Jackie; one daughter, Kayla (Kyle) Parkinson; two grandsons, Brady and Brock Parkinson; one brother, William “Bill” (Kathy) Squire; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews
E.J. was preceded in death by his parents, Everette and Janet; and one sister, Sandra Squire.
Bentley Funeral Home
Durant, Iowa