Obituary: John "Jack" Patrick Stanslaski Jr.

John “Jack” Patrick Stanslaski Jr., 60, died Aug. 7, 2022, while fishing on Lake Superior. John was born Nov. 19, 1961, in Minneapolis. He will be greatly missed by his parents John and Janice Stanslaski, his daughter Jessica Stanslaski (Zachary Gerlach), his sisters Deborah (Steve) Sauer and Jill (Russell) Gran, along with many beloved nieces and nephews, including Andrea (Drew) Swain, Marie (Mark) Rahne, Allen Larson, John (Kirstin) Larson, Joseph (Emily) Larson, Marshall Gran (1984-2021), Cody (Katie) Gran, Chelsea (Timothy) Leutgeb, Travis Gran, Jacob (Autumn) Gran, as well many aunts, uncles and cousins. John adored his great-nieces and great-nephews and delighted in making them giggle.

John graduated from Carlton High School in 1980, where he excelled at football, basketball and track. He then went to Bemidji State University where he played football. John was skilled in many trades, construction, concrete work, and starting his own company. Later in life he worked for Xcel Energy as a gas technician in Ashland, Wisconsin. He was a valued employee who enjoyed working with the gas and line crews. At Xcel he earned the nickname “Fast John” for his hard work, efficiency and can-do attitude. John loved and respected his work family and felt at home and welcomed in the community. John was generous with his time, willing to help friends and family with anything. He was a compassionate friend who made you feel loved. His many stories made us all laugh, his wit kept a smile on our faces, and his charm kept him dear in our hearts.

John’s greatest joy in life was family. Being a father to Jessica inspired him to be his best self. John was her biggest fan, attending every dance recital, sports game and other important events. John also enjoyed supporting Zach through high school and college. He was always present while Jessica and Zach transitioned into adulthood and was grateful for Zach’s love and dedication to his daughter.

John had an appreciation for being active and the outdoors. He was determined and fearless on the ski slopes and equally skilled and graceful on water skis. His encouragement brought all of us together; he always said his favorite weekends were those spent with family. Every fall John looked forward to deer hunting with his dad on their property in Blackhoof, and he took advantage of any opportunity to be fishing on a lake, and occasionally caught a few keepers.

John will be greatly missed. His family would like to extend a special thank-you to the dedicated rescue professionals, volunteers and generous community for all their support.

Visitation: 1 p.m. until the 3 p.m. memorial service Sunday, Aug. 28, followed by a luncheon, all at Nelson Funeral Care, Cloquet. To leave an online condolence for the family, visit http://www.nelsonfuneralcare.net.

Pine Knot News August 26, 2022