John A. Monzel

John Anthony Monzel, age 85 of Balsam Lake, WI, formerly of St. Paul, MN passed away surrounded by family on September 29, 2015.

John was born on December 29, 1929 in St. Paul, MN, to Matthew and Ethel (McDonough) Monzel. He grew up in St. Paul and graduated from Humboldt High School in 1948. John enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country during the Korean Conflict. He was united in marriage to Eleanor Gilcher in January of 1953. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Sandra, Carla and John.

John grew up in a family of bricklayers and was a proud member of Bricklayers Union, Local 1 for 66 years. He worked hard to provide for his family, often having to travel to find work, including in the taconite plants in northern Minnesota and as far as Florida during the winter. John worked for several contractors including his last job with Building Restoration Company, which he really enjoyed. John retired in 1991 and moved to Balsam Lake, where he enjoyed his long retirement.

John was happiest spending time with his children and his grandchildren. He loved to cook, fish and hunt. He had fond memories of duck hunting with his father and his brothers.  His hobbies were leather craft projects and tying flies.

John was also a proud member of the American Legion Post 98 in St. Paul Park, MN and in his retired years the American Legion Post 0254 in Milltown, WI.

John will remain in the hearts of his children, Sandra Severson, Carla (Andy) Love and John (Geri House); 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; former wife, Eleanor Monzel; siblings, James Monzel and Matt (Nancy) Monzel; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; and son-in-law, Ralph Severson.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson, WI. Private Interment at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.