Foodie, Family Man Dies at the Age of 68

John L. Spanton, age 68, of Shakopee, died on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013, at his residence in Shakopee.

Born on March 4, 1945, in Minneota, Minnesota, the son of Orval and Blanche (Knoben) Spanton. John attended St. Edward's Catholic School until 8th grade, and in 1963 graduated from Minneota High School. He went on to Granite Falls Vocational Technical School, achieving his accounting degree. John married Paulette Winter on June 15, 1963, in Minneota, Minnesota. He worked in finance and accounting, retiring from J & D Drywall in Elko-New Market, Minnesota.

John's hobbies and interest included hunting and fishing as well as most athletic activities and events from softball, baseball, golf and even basketball in his younger days. The Vikings would make or break his weekend as they were his team of choice. He loved watching golf especially the annual Masters event hoping Tiger would be wearing the 'green jacket' after Sunday's final round. 

Other interest include cross word puzzles, Crypto-crips and anything that would challenge his mind. John especially enjoyed his wife, two son's, daughter-law and seven grandchildren. The aspect of family was a very important part of his life especially during the Holiday Season as he loved watching the kids open their gifts and dollar scratch off cards. His passion for a quality meal made him very particular about fine foods and having a family dinner as part of the families daily routine. John never complained and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Survived by loving wife, Paulette; 2 sons, Mark, and David and wife, Rita; 7 grandchildren, Taylor and Lindsay, Rebecca, Alex, Olivia, Cecelia and Andrew; sisters and brother, Mary Muchlinski and husband, Jim, Julie Goos and husband, Dale, Doug and wife, Lois.

John was preceded in death by his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013, at 10 a.m., at The Parish of Saints Joachim and Anne (Church of St. Mary) 535 Lewis Street, in Shakopee. Interment will take place at Catholic Cemetery.

The Spanton family will receive relatives and friends on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., at McNearney Funeral Home, 1220 East Third Avenue, Shakopee.