Obituary of John E. Hannula

John E. Hannula, 85, of Annandale, MN, passed away on February 27, 2024, at St. Cloud Hospital. John was born on November 24, 1938, in Minneapolis, MN, to Edwin and Helen, and graduated from Roosevelt High School. After graduation, he began his career at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. Within a few years, he was drafted into the Navy and served on the USS Macon before returning to Northwestern Bell. John ascended to the role of manager at various company locations, which is where he met his future wife, Ginny (Sitarz).

John and his brother Bradley invested considerable time enhancing their family cabin on Clearwater Lake, transforming it into a year-round residence. John & Ginny cherished their time living there, embracing lake life and the Annandale community. John was particularly fond of water skiing, often seen piloting his speedboat with enthusiastic skiers in tow. Away from the lake, he delighted in feeding his pet chipmunk, Chippy.

For 34 years, John and Ginny spent their winters in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where they enjoyed watching dolphins and manatees. Remembered as a kind, caring, and loving husband, John will be dearly missed.

He leaves behind his wife, Ginny; children, Derek, Heidi, and Chad; grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Helen; stepfather, Bill Helmerick; and siblings, Brian and Bradley. John was blessed with loyal and dedicated neighbors, Ann and Frank Dropps, as well as the loving support of the Sitarz family.

A celebration of John’s life will be scheduled at a later date.