John Tallaksen, 69, St. Anthony Park, died Sept. 27 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.
John passed away in the excellent and compassionate care of the staff at Regions Hospital and his oncology team. John was born in St. Paul May 27, 1946. He spent his early years in South St. Paul and Brooklyn, N. Y. He graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead.
John retired from the U.S. Postal Service in Minneapolis after 27 years. He published Cajun Spotlight Notes & Steps, a monthly newsletter, for more than 22 years. John was a gentle renaissance man. A philosopher, poet, musician, who enjoyed time with family, friends, playing accordion, guitar, travel and genealogy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernhard and Lillian, and his brother, William. He is survived by his son, Joel; sister, Lillian; sister- in-law, Linda; and soulmate, Linda Olson. He was a second father and grandfather to Linda’s children, Eva Frank (Matt), Katie Neuman (Luke), Reed Olson (Katie), Ryan Olson (Claire), and their many wonderful children.
A memorial service was held Oct. 2 at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel in Minneapolis.
