ROBERT JAMES JOHN, SR.
Robert James John, Sr., 93, died peacefully on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 in his home with the love of his life by his side.
Robert James John, Sr., 93, died peacefully on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 in his home with the love of his life by his side.
Bob was born Oct. 2, 1918 to William and Myrtle (Doyle) John.
He graduated from Denfeld High School in 1936 and attended the Duluth Teachers College. He traveled worldwide while serving in the Merchant Marines during World War ll.
He married Ilah M. Brodin on Feb. 16, 1941 and together they shared 71 wonderful years.
Bob was a member of Glen Avon Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, where he served on many boards and committees and proudly sang in the choir. Bob was employed for 42 years at DM&IR Railroad, working his way up to Manager of Personnel and retiring in 1982. His frequent comment, even after many years of retirement was "I can honestly say there was never a day I didn't enjoy going to work." Bob was an active member and often the chairperson of several organizations including Glen Avon Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, AAD Temple Shrine, Eastern Star, Presbytery of the Northern Waters, Gitchi Gummi Kiwanis, Boy Scouts of America and was Post Commander of the Mark Christian American Legion Post. Bob loved music and played several instruments. He especially enjoyed attending the DSSO concerts with his wife. Another joy in his life was spending time with his family. He also had a passion for playing golf and bowling.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Melvin and Grace who died as small children and his brothers, William Jr., Lloyd and Ralph and a great grandson Joey Eschweiler.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Ilah; sons Robert Jr. (Jane) of Marquette, Mich., Willard (Jan) of Circle Pines, Donald (Mary), Richard (Lynda) and daughters Linda (Gary) Simonsen and Pam (William Dale) Koivisto all of Duluth; 18 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren with another due in July; brother Richard and sister Doris Tarnowski both of Duluth; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
VISITATION: 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral service on Monday, May 21, 2012 in Glen Avon Presbyterian Church 2105 Woodland Ave. with Rev. Robyn Weaver officiating. Entombment will be at Sunrise Memorial Park. Military honors will be accorded by the Duluth Combined Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials to Glen Avon Presbyterian Church or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Sunrise Funeral Home.
Tags: obituaries
Sign the guestbook (1 comment)
Comments posted on this page do not reflect opinions of Forum Communications Company. Forum Communications Company does not endorse and is not responsible for any statement, opinion, advice given or made. All replies are subject to approval and must follow Forum Communications Company guidelines concerning statements of libel, personal attacks or defamation of character. Replies in the "Talk About It" section that criticize a person by name may not be posted, unless that person is openly involved in a public issue. Comments written in all capital letters or bold print will not be considered for inclusion in the forum.
RSS Feeds
Polly J.
To Ilah and the rest of the John family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Uncle Bob (as I also called him) was a treasure - it was always such fun to talk to him about music and life, and he loved his family so much! I found him to be a dear and sweet man, who always gave me a big smile and a hug, and accepted me even after my life situation changed. I will always remember his love of music, and how he got a couple of chances to hear ME sing :) May you all share sweet memories of Bob at this sad time. Much love, Polly (Wiita) JohnDuluth, MN 05/14/2012 9:23 AM
Report a Violation