Obituary of Richard John

Richard “Dick” John, 97 of Duluth, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 25, 2024.

Dick was born in Duluth MN on November 2, 1926, to William and Myrtle John. He lived his entire life in this area, attending high school at Denfeld, graduating in 1944. Dick enlisted in the US Navy in 1945 during World War II as a Seaman, 2nd Class, spending time as a Signalman on ships that put him in the Asian Pacific. While serving his country, he contracted yellow jaundice and spent months in the hospital before being honorably discharged. As a WWII Veteran, Dick was able to go on an Honor Flight when he was in his 90’s. This was a highlight of his life and he really loved visiting Washington DC.

Dick was employed at the US Steel Plant in Gary-New Duluth. His college experience gave him the opportunity to work as a Chemical Analyst. He was forced into early retirement in the 1970’s due to a tragic car accident.

Dick was very active in his long life, being involved in a number of organizations that included the Masonic Lodge, the Aad Shriners (where he sang in the chorus), and the Damiano Center. He loved the Duluth Playhouse and the Duluth Symphony and was a season ticket holder of both for decades. Dick loved his family and friends and had many jokes and quips he’d use in conversation. He was a proud member of AA and wasn’t hesitant to share his experience with others. He remained sober for 40+ years, bringing many to the hope that he found in this organization.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, two of whom died as children in the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918 (Grace and Melvin), his brothers and spouses, William (Hazel), Robert (Ilah), Ralph (June) and Lloyd (Catherine) and sister, Doris (Earl Tarnowski). His son, Daniel, passed away on May 8, 2020.

Dick is survived by his son, Bruce (Adele) of Wrenshall, daughter-in-law Polly Wiita John of Duluth, grandchildren Erica (Kevin Korich) of Hermantown, Miranda (Tracy Mullen) of Duluth, Byron John of Wrenshall, and two great-grandsons, Dane John Korich and Gavin John. He has many nieces and nephews who affectionately loved their Uncle Dick.

Thank you to the staff at North Shore Estates and St Anne’s Residence for taking good care of Dick in his later years. A memorial service for Dick will be held on Sunday, March 17th at 2:00 pm at the Masonic Center of Duluth, 4 West 2nd St. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Shriners Children’s Hospital and Clinics.