John Held, 75, of Black River Falls, WI passed away peacefully at his home in the woods on Monday, June 5^th, 2017 after a long and relentless battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Yadira, his daughters Heather Lines (Stephen) and Jennifer Hartigan (Andrew), stepson Erik Haugen (Trena), grandsons Tyler, Jack, Tristan, Caiden and Eugene as well as the 5 Held nieces.  He is preceded in death by his first wife, Patsy, (Tiffany) his parents Harlan and Viola Held, sister Carrie McMullen and brother Doug Held.

After earning his B.A. at the University of South Dakota and his PhD at North Dakota State University, he spent his 30-year career at the University of WI – La Crosse in the Department of Biology as a professor, specializing in fisheries.  He was a true believer in the scientific method.  He spent many hours on research, much of which was on rivers studying fish.  John was a zoologist in a classical way, giving and expecting reverence to and from students.  The more they gave to their pursuits, the more the professor encouraged, even demanded, of them.   He had a passion for the student and took great pride in contributing to a higher level of education.  He ultimately transitioned to serve as Assistant Vice Chancellor and Director of Graduate Studies before retiring in 1997.

Upon retirement he shifted his time and efforts to his property in Jackson Cty, WI, test-driving his skills at hand-scribed log building.  He built the well known “shed” as practice prior to completing his dream home.

John’s greatest joy came from spending time in the outdoors, with friends and family, hunting deer, geese, ducks and elk and hosting Deer Camp was a highlight over the years.  He was most content in his overalls working in the shed.

John was a lover of music from Dixieland jazz to outlaw country.  It was rare to visit him without music being part of your experience.

He created many memories throughout his life with annual trips to the Baja in Mexico, and later to his favorite city of Guanajuato.

His passion for and love of life, sense of humor, story-telling and hugs will be greatly missed.

A true celebration of his life will be held at his beloved shed on Saturday, June 17^th at N3104 Partridge Road, Black River Falls, WI, 54615.  Guests may begin arriving at 11:00 am, service to begin at 11:30 am.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Ducks Unlimited, or the NRA.