BLAIR — John “Jack” Byrne, 66, of Martinsburg, W.Va., passed away in La Crosse on Sunday, May 22, 2011, due to complications from COPD.

He was the first born of 10 children to Elizabeth (Byrne) Haug.  Jack was a life-long learner, enrolled in college classes and tutored econ students right up until his death. He was especially fond of history and could argue the merits of any war with anyone. He was a “jack” of all trades, enjoying journeys from carpentry to civilian government employee. He was especially proud of serving his country in various military roles for more than 25 years. Before COPD got the best of him, he had hoped to move back home, find a small cabin and have a fishing pole nearby. Some of his favorite things included the Packers, photography, chicken livers, walleye pike, lefse and, of course, Orange Crush. Survivors include his daughter, Nicole and son, Shawn; grandchildren Connor and Shannon;  brothers, Dan (Pixie) Haug, Eric (Brenda) Haug and Chuck (Susan) Haug; sisters, Becky (Gene) Gagnon, Jill Haug, Jeanne (Rick) Wank, Gwen Jones, Heidi Haug and Mary (Mike) Drugan; 25 nieces and nephews and 14 great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Haug. There will be a graveside gathering for friends and family at 10:30 a.m.on Monday, May 30, at Green Mound Cemetary in Holmen followed by lunch at Drugan’s Supper Club. The family requests no flowers.