Born on January 15, 1939, in Lincoln, Illinois, John was the beloved son of Ray O. and Elizabeth (Farrell) Zumstein. His life was marked by meaningful relationships, enduring friendships, a deep commitment to those he loved, and a lifelong love and devotion to all music. John married MaryJo Releford, and they later divorced. John found lasting companionship with Yvonne H. Roth, whom he married on July 29, 2000. Together, over the last 26 years, they built a life filled with faith, family, and cherished memories.
John is also survived by his son, John R. Zumstein (Pam) of Sherman; daughter, Shannon Zumstein of Springfield; stepdaughter, Nicole Roth (Jack) Henderson of League City, TX; stepson, Clayton (Carrie) Roth of Loami, his grandchildren, Austin Servais and Marshall Servais, Cyrus Henderson, and Logan and Liam Roth; his brother, Ray (Janet) Zumstein of Goodfield, IL; his niece, Margaret Zumstein of Deer Creek, IL and great-nephew, Nathan Zumstein, as well as the many friends he leaves behind.
John was preceded in death by his parents; and his cousin, Leon, who was like a brother.
John’s life in Mt. Pulaski was centered around three corners, his home, St. John’s Lutheran Church, and the Mt. Pulaski High School. He made lasting memories at all three. John attended college for a few years before he began his career in law enforcement with the Illinois State Police, the job he loved. During the Thompson administration, he was selected to serve on the Executive Security Detail for Governor James Thompson and later Lieutenant Governor George Ryan before retiring in 1991. He was a life member of the Fraternal Order of Police, and the Illinois Police Association.
John was a devoted and active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, where his beautiful voice joined the adult choir and Men’s Chorus. He served many years on the OS board of properties. He could be seen frequently at OS where he was always willing to provide assistance when needed.
John was a 20-year member and past president of the Springfield Choral Society where he made many friends and even traveled to France with the group.
Beyond his love of singing and devotion to his family and church, John also got great joy from the outdoors. Whether it was traveling to new places, sitting quietly on a porch, or traversing the boundary waters, John found joy and peace in nature. He was a member of the Order of the Great Peirre and nurtured many friendships on his annual trip adventuring through the BWCA.
Family and Friends are invited to a Memorial Service at 11:00 am Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL 62704. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall of Our Savior’s where family and friends are welcome to share memories and visit with John’s family.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Music Department, 2645 Old Jacksonville Rd. Springfield, IL 62704 or the Concordia Village Scholarship Fund, 4101 W. Iles Ave. Springfield, IL 62711
