To Rochelle and Family: I flew back from Phoenix with plans to attend John's memorial this past Monday. I so wanted to pay my respects. But I tested positive for Covid the day prior, and did not want to expose anyone else. John was a client, but far more importantly, he was a great friend, and someone I admired and respected immensely. I just feel bad I couldn't attend to express that to you personally. I'm sure it was a wonderful and well-deserved tribute to John. God Bless

Dear Woodward family…. Not one if you know me- I went to grade school at Pilot Knob Elementary in Eagan. Several years John and I had the same teacher. You don’t need me to tell you how wonderful he was, but I’m going to anyway…. I remember him to be such a kind young boy- he was always in a good mood, and I remember his laugh. He never got into trouble (that I remember) and he was like a brother to me back then. He had made such an impression on me, that in the past few years I had off-and-on tried to find out where he was and how he was doing. I am so very sad that he has passed away…. It has been a little under 50 years, and I was still thinking of him. That was the type of impression he made on me. The teachers all liked him as well. So did the rest of the students. He was such a good boy. His parents did an excellent job of raising a decent human being. My heart is crushed with this news. I will always keep that dimpled, smiley, funny kid in my heart. My heart is also breaking for your heart pain as well. What a loss. I hope to be able to attend at the Dellwood gathering and introduce myself to you all. He was outstanding. Most Sincerely, Heidi Jo (formerly Bruestle- )

Dear Rochelle, sons, and family: My deepest condolences for your loss. I am crushed to learn about John's passing. Through my conversations and email exchanges with John during his illness, I know how hard he battled, and how much he appreciated the loving and courageous support he received from all of you. There is comfort in knowing John is in a better place, but we've lost one of the really best, and most decent persons I've ever known. My prayers will continue to be with you.

My heart is so heavy as I read this. Rochelle and kids, it was an honor to know John. I loved working for him, seeing him around the neighborhood or on the slopes of Afton Alps. His smile was infectious and he was such a kind soul. Prayers for your family as you mourn this huge loss.

Rochelle and sons, my heart goes out to you all in your time of mourning. John was a good person, one of the first people I met at St. John’s back in freshman year. May you find comfort, peace, and healing.

Dear Rochelle, Roman, Evan, Grant and Family,

Thank you for that beautiful tribute to John. He will definitely live on through each of you in particular and, as you mention, through all of us who have been lucky enough to be his friend. And what a great friend to have! His overflowing positivity and joy in getting together with people were so much fun to be around (and his great sense of humor) and those feelings and images are very much still present when I think back on the time spent with him. Happily, those great qualities of John's are ones that your whole family shares in abundance and will make for many more great times to come. I know you will all be strong for each other and make your way forward with John as your biggest cheerleader, being present with you often in whatever ways he finds to do that. You'll have lots of cheerleaders and support, no doubt, and I hope and plan to be among them.

With condolences and all best wishes,

Mac

Rochelle and sons,
You've written a lovely tribute for a lovely husband and father. John was such a great guy to work with at ProVation. He worked hard, played hard, was driven, accountable, clever, ethical, inspiring, energetic, fun and very, very successful. In short, he was one of my very best leaders over a long career. His fingerprints were all over that company. He created a lasting, indelible legacy.

I lost both of my parents at young ages. This is going to sting for a while, but I promise it will soften over time. He will forever be unforgettable and in your hearts. I look forward to seeing you September 11. Peace to the four of you.
Mark Wagner

Our hearts go out to you, Rochelle and kids, and your entire families. John was an amazing combination of a human who could make you laugh until it hurt, amaze you with his heartfelt and wise words, and make you so thankful for his thoughtfulness. We still remember the kind words he sent when my (Mary’s) mother passed away and all the hilarious things he did in college when we all studied in Salzburg together. The world lost a good man, but your loss must be heartbreaking. We wish you and your family so much peace and healing in the face of the unbelievable injustice of your loss of a wonderful husband and father.
Mary & Scott Fenske

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Eric’s favorite memories and times with John were their road trips for gopher lacrosse when Thomas and Grant played together.

Dear Rochelle, Roman, Evan, Grant, family and dear friends of John,
Because of John’s humility and generous spirit, it seems we all learned and grew together. He often shared Ram Dass’ quote: “We are all just walking each other home.”   and wrote in his last post: “It’s been my privilege and honor to walk this journey with each of you.” I will always have great gratitude and awe for John’s inclusion of all of us on his journey and know that he will be with us on each of ours. Such a gift of love. Sending prayers for continued healing to each and every one of you. 💚🙏🏻💚