Preceded in death by parents Aloysius & LaVerne; brother Joel; spouse Mary Kay; and brother-in-law (Leo).
Survived by children Thomas (Loni), Jean (Kurt) and Lisa; 7 grandchildren Jen (Brian), Alicia (Geof), Angela (Ryan), Amber (Charles), Kathleen (Thomas), Michael and John Patrick (Katie); great-grandchildren Kyle, Ross, Konnor, Jack, Kaiden, Caelyn, Ryker, Parker, Chloe, Amara, Levi, Cameron, Ivy and Lena Jo; siblings Bob (Nancy) and MaryAnn (Randy); and sisters-in-law Patty (Chuck), Beth (Wayne) and Loreese (spouse of brother-in-law Leo); as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends too numerous to list.
He grew up in Saint Paul and was a proud graduate of Cretin High School. After high school he worked for the U. S. Postal Service and the Brandt family floral business for several years. He was activated as a SSGT with the Air National Guard during the building of the Berlin Wall where he worked stateside with the Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squad as an Aircraft Mechanic. He later returned to the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management to complete his BS in Transportation. After 26 years at 3M as an award-winning leader in their transportation division, he retired and took on what he considered his most significant role, which was to care for his beloved wife as her MS progressed. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially taking daily walks around the lake with Mary Kay. Together they traveled to their favorite destinations, especially Florida and Hawaii. They also went on multiple cruises and vacations with lifelong friends.
As an alternative to flowers, the family suggests donations to Hospice of the Midwest through the BrightSpring Hospice Foundation. Special thanks to the incredible staff at Orchard Path and Birchwood Senior Living facilities as well as the compassionate and supportive staff from Hospice of the Midwest who provided exceptional care during Dad’s journey.
Visitation on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 10-11 am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at Guardian Angels Catholic Church at 11 am, 8260 4th St., Oakdale, MN. Private interment at Ft. Snelling.
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