John Arthur Hall
January 13, 1940 – December 28, 2025
John Arthur Hall, was born on January 13, 1940, in Burke, South Dakota, to the late Jess and Selma (Mueller) Hall. He passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025 in Otsego, Minnesota, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet humor, and a life well lived.
John grew up in Burke and graduated from Burke High School in 1958. After high school, he attended Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minnesota, and later earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota in 1962.
He proudly served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1965 as a Personnel Specialist, stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. True to form, John handled paperwork with precision and calm, qualities that followed him throughout his life.
On June 21, 1968, John married Catherine Joan Trask in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Together, they raised three children and built a life rooted in love, stability, and togetherness. He spent most of his life living in New Hope and Zimmerman, Minnesota. He was an accountant for various companies, where he was known for genuinely enjoying the company of his coworkers, something not every accountant can claim.
John was a longtime member of Holy Nativity Lutheran Church in New Hope, Minnesota, and a proud member of The American Legion.
John found joy in the things that truly mattered to him: time at Sandy Lake near Zimmerman; gardening; home improvement projects (some more “improved” than others); and faithfully playing the lottery—remaining ever hopeful and always optimistic. He loved visiting with family and friends, cheering on the Minnesota Vikings (through both triumph and heartbreak), watching hockey games, and fishing with any kid willing to grab a pole and join him.
He loved listening to Jimmy Buffett, and the escape it offered. He attended many Jimmy Buffett concerts over the years with his kids, fully appreciating the chance to relax, sing along, and enjoy life just a little more.
An animal lover through and through, John had a soft spot for kids and pets alike and was always happiest when surrounded by both.
John was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; his parents, Jess and Selma Hall; his sister, Ardith (Hall) Tepley; and his son, Steven Howard Hall.
He is survived by his brother, Wayne Hall of Winner, South Dakota; his son, Kevin John Hall (Cheri) of New Bern, North Carolina; and his daughter, Kristin Lynn Hall (Dan Luedke) of Zimmerman—along with many extended family members and friends who will remember his presence, gentle humor, and easygoing spirit.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the exceptional staff at Guardian Angels Riverview Landing in Otsego, Minnesota and Triniti Home Health and Hospice of Elk River, Minnesota, whose compassion and care meant more than words can express.
Memorial donations in honor of John may be made to:
Bethany Lutheran College, The Bethany Fund, 700 Luther Drive, Mankato, MN 56001
Triniti Home Health and Hospice, 403 Main Street, Elk River, MN 55330
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