On August 3, 2023, went away without fear or suffering. At the time of his passing, his parents, Lloyd and Eleanor, had already passed away. Some of the people who will miss him greatly include his wife of 57 years, Janice; his daughters, Kimber Munson (and her husband Erik) and Kelly Sofio (and her husband Greg); his grandchildren, Matthew, Sophie, Christina, Nicholas, and Martha; his siblings, Sharon Wright (and her husband Don), and Robert Fisher; and a large number of nieces, nephews, and friends. John attended Murray High School and the University of Minnesota, before graduating from both institutions.
He was born and raised in the Como Park neighbourhood. During his time in the Army National Guard and Reserves, he served for a total of six years. Through his job with the St. Paul Convention and Visitors Bureau, he marketed his hometown of St. Paul, which he was interested in promoting through his enthusiasm for history, his lawn, and his community. In addition to his involvement with the Winter Carnival for more than three decades, John was a Vulcan in 1972 and a King Boreas in 1985.
He was also active with the St Paul Jaycees. Additionally, he held a position in executive management and acted as a mentor to other members of the Winter Carnival family, whom he was highly recognised and valued.
His passion for Lionel Trains, which he had throughout his whole childhood, drove him to join the Lionel Collectors Club of America, which he eventually became president of. Card games were John’s favourite pastime, and he had a wonderful sense of humour and a quick wit.
Despite the fact that John was famous for his holiday lighting, which was only surpassed by Clark Griswold, his favourite thing to do was to get together with his family and friends to celebrate.
One will be held in his honour at Mancini’s Char House on Sunday, October 1 from 12 to 3 o’clock in the afternoon. It is my sincere gratitude to Lyngblomsten for the outstanding care that was offered to John. All donations should be sent to Como Friends, Lyngblomsten, or the donor’s choice.
