John S. “Jack” Todd, age 82, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Essentia Health St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN.

John “Jack” Todd

Jack was born on Oct 7, 1941, to Stanley and Ruby (Johnson) Todd in Springfield, MN. He graduated from Springfield High School and went on to attend Mankato State College. It was there that he met Jane Fraser. They were married on August 18, 1962, celebrating over 61 years of marriage together. Jack later received his master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. He spent his career educating both children and adults inside and outside of the classroom. He especially enjoyed teaching summer science programs on the Gunflint and Arrowhead Trails.

Jack was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, serving in many leadership positions in the congregations he was part of. He sang in the church choir for over 60 years, singing the bass part of hymns for all to hear.

His life was shaped by his love for his family and the outdoors. Time together at the cabin and on family vacations maximized time spent in the woods and on the water. Jack enjoyed countless canoe trips in MN and Canada, especially 3 trips in the Canadian arctic and Arctic Ocean. He was an active member of outdoor organizations involving everything from canoeing to dogsledding.

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Jane of Grand Rapids, MN; sons, Eric (Connie) Todd of International Falls, MN, Owen (Carolyn) Todd of New Ulm, MN; grandchildren, Sarah (Levi) Lucy of Rockford, MN, Ryan Todd of Williston, ND, Emma (Chris) Peterson of St. Louis Park, MN, Jacob Todd of Woodbury, MN; sister, Diane Menne of Finlayson, MN; nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Ruby (Johnson) Todd.

A visitation will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Grand Rapids United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids, MN with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Pastor Jim Crecelius and Pastor Marva Jean Hutchens will co-officiate.