John J. Halloran

John J. Halloran, 92, of Canton, Minn., and most recently under the care (and spoiling) of his daughter Diane, outside Big Canoe, Iowa, died Saturday, October 22, 2022, just shy of 93 years young.

“Johnny” was born November 7, 1929, in Canton, Minn., to Paul and Gertrude (Ryan) Halloran.  He was a member of the Canton High School graduating class of 1950.  In May 1963, he married Marion Kleiboer. They had four children together and later divorced. He held multiple positions over the years including farming, hauling milk and then worked for the Preston Creamery for many years, retiring in 1991. He was a member of the Assumption Catholic Church, the Canton Historical Society, served on the Canton Fire Department and enjoyed being a Scout Master.

He was everyone’s “grandpa John,” a man of faith, family, and many words including poetry and lyrics. He loved antiquing and finding the perfect addition to his many collections, going for drives with his grandkids and getting “lost” in the countryside, playing cards with old Canton buddies, teasing any kiddos he came across, wintering in Arizona and travels with his sister Tish.  He took pride in his Irish heritage. He was kind and generous to all and his sense of humor was his most endearing quality – bringing a smile or giggle to all he encountered. He was the greatest joy you had ever met.

John is survived by his four children: Deb (Tim) Smieja of Galesville, Wis., Diane (Garth) Narum of Decorah, Iowa., Doug (Cindy) of Maumelle, Ark., and Barb (Paul) Haines of Rochester, Minn.; 10 grandchildren: Matt, Mitch and BJ; Samantha, Jacob and Joshua; Alex and Ellie, and Kiley and Sloan; many great-grandchildren; and a sister, Tish Halloran of Sun Lake, Ariz.; and was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five siblings: Ryan, Maribeth, Rita Ann, Fr. Paul and Marilyn.

Special thanks to Abbey Jorgenson and her little ones for helping with gramps, entertaining him on a daily basis, and treating him as if he was family to you, too! We appreciate you so much!

Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 29, 2022, at the Assumption Catholic Church in Canton, Minn., with Father Edward McGrath officiating.  Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Canton.  Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the Assumption Catholic Church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. The Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel is assisting with arrangements.