John Paul Hornung, age 75, of Cambridge died January 6, 2020 at Ecumen in North Branch. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, JANUARY 24th at Ft. Snelling Memorial Chapel, 1 Tower Ave, Minneapolis with a time for visiting one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery followed by a reception at Richfield VFW Post 5555.
John Paul Hornung was born October 25th, 1944 in Eldora, Iowa to Paul and Opal (Lyman) Hornung. He was raised and attended school in Eldora, Owasa and Iowa Falls, Iowa. After high school, John worked very hard in various roles and became a federal meat inspector. He then served his country from 1967 to 1969 in the US Army. On August 3rd, 1974, he married Julie Thorsbakken. John went back to college and began a career in public education as a high school business teacher in Iowa, then principal and superintendent in Minnesota. He served many Minnesota school districts: Lanesboro, Glenwood, Triton, Nicollet, Norwood-Young America and Glencoe-Silver Lake. Upon retirement, John and Julie spent time on the Gulf Coast of Alabama as well as their home on Lake Minnewaska in Starbuck, MN. John enjoyed fishing, hunting, visiting with family and friends, and working on his cars.
John Paul Hornung passed away January 6, 2020 at Ecumen in North Branch at the age of 75 years, 2 months and 12 days. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Linda McWherter.
John is survived by his wife, Julie; daughters Kari (Eric) Clappier, Jill (Jason) Hills, Joslyn (Andy) Manske; son John, Jr. (Kristen); siblings Steve (Gayle), Lisa (Jerry) Kaldenberg; grandchildren Allison, Elizabeth, Julia, Justin, Tucker and Harrison; as well as many relatives and friends.
John took me out fishing by Starbuck and I caught my first and only Northern Pike! I always enjoyed his sense of humor and good nature! Our prayers are with you as we know love in Christ will bring peace!
John was very kind. When I was on the Nicollet school board, he let me take my two boys on our very first Father son fishing trip to his cabin . I remember it was really cool outside, I got the bed with an electric blanket and the boys did not. I don’t think I ever told the boys about the electric blanket.
John was my very best friend for over 60 years. We were classmates at Iowa Falls High School and competed together as teammates on the football, basketball, and track teams. Later we attended Ellsworth College together. John was a man of great accomplishment through hard work, diligence, and high principles. He was a fantastic family man, who raised four children who have thrived in their education endeavors and subsequent careers. He was also a very loving grandfather. He will be greatly missed by his former students, colleagues, friends, and family.
John was my teacher at Iowa Falls High School in 1981 for Business and DECA classes. He was a great teacher, mentor and friend. John will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Prayers to his family and friends from the Iowa Falls High School Class of 1981. May his family have peace and comfort at this time. God Bless!
I was on the school board when John was the superintendent at Glencoe Silver Lake. John was a strong leader with a kind heart. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Jodi Braband
I have know John and Julie for many years. John and I worked together as young boys and were fast friends who connected at many reunions. I will miss him greatly. Julie we are truly sorry for your loss.
Larry Goodknight
COL(Ret) US ARMY
I enjoyed working with John in Nicollet. He cared about the community and the school.