John Meader III

John L. Meader III, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 13 surrounded by family at United Hospital in St. Paul, MN. He was 65. John was born on February 28, 1956, in Fargo, ND, to John L. Meader Jr. and Dora “Doje” J. Baker. Johnny, as he was most often called, spent his early childhood years in Moorhead, MN, and Memphis, TN, before his family settled in Minnetonka, MN. He graduated from Hopkins Lindbergh High School in 1974. Johnny was very athletic, and played football and hockey as a teen, and enjoyed water and downhill skiing. From a young age, Johnny had a strong independent spirit and desire to be in charge, beginning with his first paper route. This independence continued all through his life. As a self-employed builder, he enjoyed the challenge of many projects, with his knowledge and experience leading him to specialize in decks and home remodels. Johnny had two sons, Kevin and Michael, and was so proud of their accomplishments, and excited to see where life would take them. Johnny loved summers at the lake. He grew up spending his summers at his family’s cabin on Lake Lizzie in northern Minnesota. He loved boating on Lake Minnetonka. An avid sports fan, Johnny loved cheering for all his Minnesota sports teams, in good times and in bad! He started each day with an early morning cup of coffee and the Minneapolis Star Tribune, reading the entire paper but focusing on the sports section. During the past 11 years, his constant companion was his springer spaniel, Apollo. Always the life of the party, he enjoyed family celebrations, holiday gatherings, and lively conversation over a perfectly grilled steak. We will fondly remember his gift of conversation, outgoing personality, and his love of family. John was preceded in death by his parents, John L. Meader Jr. and Dora J. Baker. He is survived by his sons Kevin (Olivia), Plymouth, MN and Michael, San Diego, CA; his sisters, Susan (Rich) Isaman, Pelican Rapids, MN, Gretchen (Ron) Nelson, Fridley, MN, and Cathy (Rick) Weisser, Fargo, ND; many nieces and nephews; and friend Haidi Jerlstrom. Interment will be at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Johnny’s family would like to thank the staff of United Hospital for their support and compassion in overseeing his care. There will be a gathering of family and friends at Miller Funeral Home at 6210 HWY 65 NE, Fridley 55432 on Friday, December 17, 2021 from 4:00 until 6:00 PM. Interment to take place at Lakewood Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Friday, December 17, 2021.