John L. Larkin

Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 6, 2025.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Lorraine; sister, Toni Schiltgen; and brothers, Thomas “Buzz,” Greg, and Tim. He is survived by his children Shannon (Kirk Hanson), John (Kathy), Dan (Joan), and Kelly (Mike) Hansen; grandchildren Adam, Bailey, Alexis, Keara, Quinn, Brenna, and Kian; siblings Kathleen, Mary, Dan (Arlene), and Bob; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Jackie Cooper “Jack.”

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11 from 3–6 PM at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home–Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St @ County Rd B. A Celebration of Life will follow at Gabe’s Bar and Kitchen, 991 Lexington Parkway N., St. Paul, beginning at 6 PM. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite Minnesota sports team attire in honor of John’s lifelong fandom.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Midway Men’s Club, P.O. Box 4181, St. Paul, MN 55104, (https://gofund.me/2cc03b598) to support youth sports—one of John’s greatest passions.

John proudly served in the military during the late 1960s, where he joined the Deutscher Eishockey-Bund e.V. (DEB)—the German Ice Hockey Federation—and played for a local team while stationed at the Hohenfels military base.

He retired in 2009 after 44 years as a production supervisor at Donaldson Company, where he was known for his dedication and work ethic.

A fast-pitch softball fanatic, John lived for the game and cherished the camaraderie of his teammates and lifelong friends. He played on numerous men’s fast-pitch teams including Hank’s Horseshoe Bar, Morelli’s, Vogel’s, The Rec, and EK Lamonts. In October 2004, he was inducted into the St. Paul Old Timers Fast Pitch Hall of Fame, with his plaque proudly displayed at the American Legion Club in North St. Paul.

John found immense joy in watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He was one of the biggest University of Minnesota Gopher fans around—leading the Gopher Rouser after every score or win, no matter where he was. He loved watching all types of sports with his family and was an avid stat keeper, always keeping everyone up to date on the latest team news.

John will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, sports, and community. His spirit, humor, and dedication will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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