John Resman

John Resman, a dedicated public servant who represented the 121st district in the Kansas House of Representatives for nearly a decade, passed away on March 2, 2026, at the age of 70. His life was marked by a profound commitment to his community and state, first through a distinguished career in law enforcement and later as a respected legislator. Resman's unexpected passing at his Olathe home leaves a void in Kansas politics and in the hearts of those who knew him.

Born on April 4, 1955, in Passaic, New Jersey, John Resman embarked on a path of service early in his life. He attended high school and college in New Jersey before enlisting in the United States Army in 1976. During his military service, he was stationed at the United States Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he served as a military policeman and corrections specialist.

Following his active military duty, Resman continued his work in corrections, joining the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Correctional Officer at the U.S. Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas. He later transferred to the Federal Correctional Institution in Otisville, New York, further honing his expertise in the field.

In November 1982, John Resman returned to Kansas, beginning a long and impactful career with the Johnson County Sheriff's Office. Over 28 years, he rose through the ranks, serving in various divisions including Detention, Communications, Patrol, and Investigations. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1990, Lieutenant in 1997, and ultimately achieved the rank of Captain in 2009, becoming part of the Sheriff's Office Command Staff before his retirement in 2010.

Resman's dedication to public service extended beyond law enforcement into the political arena. In February 2017, he was appointed to the Kansas House of Representatives, representing the 121st district. During his tenure, he was a vocal advocate for conservative principles, championing fiscal responsibility, quality education, and traditional Kansas values. He was known for his pro-life stance and strong support for the Second Amendment.

As a legislator, Representative Resman served on several key committees, including the Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee, the House Federal and State Affairs Committee, and as Vice Chair of the Transportation and Public Safety Budget Committee. His experience in law enforcement provided invaluable insight into these roles, allowing him to contribute meaningfully to legislation impacting public safety and justice.

John Resman's legacy is one of unwavering commitment to the people of Kansas. He approached his work with integrity and a genuine concern for his constituents, earning the respect of his colleagues and the community he served. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and his memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched through his dedicated service.