John Grossbach

John Verne Grossbach, age 80, of Baxter, MN, passed away peacefully on April 17 due to complications with Alzheimer’s.

Born on November 3, 1945 in Mazeppa, MN, John graduated from Mazeppa High School in 1963. After serving his country with courage and dedication as a Marine in the Vietnam War, John returned to Minnesota and found his calling in forestry, attending the University of Minnesota Cloquet Forestry Center. John dedicated 39 years to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, working on the stewardship and preservation of our natural lands. His passion for the outdoors was evident in everything he did — from the forests and home vegetable garden that he cared for, to his yearly fishing and hunting trips.

John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Pam, his two children, Chris (husband, Doug Feickert) and Karin (husband, Bryan Johnson), and his three grandchildren, Lauren, Weston and Evelyn. He is also survived by his three brothers, Tom (wife, Marilyn), Loren (wife, Ann), Larry, and sister, Doreen Wagner (husband Todd). He was preceded in death by his parents Vernie and Lela and stepmother Doris Grossbach.

He will be remembered for his quiet wisdom, his strong moral compass, and the way he found peace in nature. A member of Christ Evangelical Church in Baxter, he served in many roles throughout his membership.

A funeral service with will be held on May 2nd at 11:00 am at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baxter. A luncheon will be served following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in his memory to the Alzheimer’s Association (Alz.org) or Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church (ChristBaxter.com).