John D. Gerszewski, 77, formerly of Oslo, MN, passed away on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at Gundersen Hospital in La Crosse, WI under hospice care, surrounded by his wife and children. John was born May 15, 1943 in Grand Forks, ND to Frank and Mary (Zolondek) Gerszewski. John is survived by his wife Mary, and children Pat (Dan) Campbell, Mike (Kari) Gerszewski, Joanne (Mark) Frandolig, and Katy (Randy) Heck. He had twelve grandchildren: Megan (Andrew) Kenady, Grant and Anna Campbell, Noah and Jacob Gerszewski, Zachary and Michael Frandolig, Hunter and Ben Hoverson, and Hunter, Hailee, and Harper Heck. Also surviving are brother Matt (Pat) Gerszewski, and sisters-in-law Ruthann Gerszewski and Alana Gerszewski. John was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Joe and Ray, and sister Trudy.

John attended country school and graduated from Oslo High School in 1961. He met Mary Frances Duffy at a dance in Oslo and they were married in November of 1963 and shared over 57 years together.

He attended UND and graduated summa cum laude in 1966. Upon graduation, John was employed by the Department of the Army. He and Mary and their young family lived in Alabama and New Mexico before returning to Grand Forks. John then worked for UND Plant Services for several years. In 1976, he moved his family to Oslo and began farming full time. In 1987, he began employment with Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, remaining there until his retirement in 2006.  Not content to be idle after retirement, John began working for his neighbors, WJS Farms.  John loved being behind the wheel of a tractor.

John found great joy spending time with his grandchildren and watching their varied sports activities. He and Mary were very active in events surrounding their children, including Oslo Booster Club and C.Y.O. activities. John was a lifelong supporter of UND athletics, having been a Sioux Booster for many years.  John was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Oslo School Board, Farmer’s Union Board, Oslo Lion’s Club and Tri-Valley Opportunity Council Board of Directors.  He also loved a good game of pinochle.

Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, June 19th  2:30 pm with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Oslo. Interment will be at the Garden of the Evangelist’s Columbarium, Calvary North Cemetery in Grand Forks. Memorials can be directed to Gundersen Medical Foundation-Hospice, 1900 South Ave., La Crosse, WI 54601.