John Jay Schansberg, 61 of Caledonia, MN went home to be with his Heavenly Father on April 29, 2016 at Gundersen Health Systems surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on Nov. 20, 1954, in Caledonia to Jerome and Catharina (Meyer) Schansberg.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church.  He attended St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran School and graduated from Caledonia High School in 1973.  He graduated from the culinary program at Rochester Area Vocational Technical Institute in 1975.

John had an interesting string of professions over the years.  He was currently working at Staggemeyer Stave Co.  John was a great friend, uncle and brother.  He was a loving and caring soul who always put others first.  He enjoyed 4-wheeling with his dog Zeus, going to auctions, visiting with friends and family and enjoying God’s great creation.  John always said he was just passing through and that we don’t own anything here on earth, we’re just using it while we’re here.  He loved the Lord with all his heart and soul and if you spent enough time around him he would gladly share his faith with you.  He always said there will be no worries in heaven and now he is enjoying God’s blessings to the fullest. John will be greatly missed by his family and so many close friends.

John is survived by his three brothers, Irvin (Joanne) of Caledonia, Ralph (Eileen) of Harmony and Paul (Carol) of Caledonia; twelve nieces and nephews, Dave (Kary) Schansberg, Dan (Carrie) Schansberg, Amy (Mike) Sylling, Michelle (Jim) Caya, Cheryl (Alan) Wunnecka, Leanne (boyfriend John) Schansberg, Kevin Schansberg, Alan (fiancé Karen) Schansberg, Jason Schansberg, Michael (fiancé Becky) Schansberg, Chris (girlfriend Jamie) Schansberg and Kelly Schansberg; and seventeen great nieces and nephews and one great great niece.

John was preceded in death by his parents and a lot of good friends.

Memorial services will be held at 11a.m., Sat. May 7, 2016, at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Caledonia.  Rev. Jon Wolff will officiate.  Visitation will be from 9 to 11a.m. prior to services.  A private scattering of John’s ashes will take place at a later time.