John "Jack" R. Seelhammer

John Robert “Jack” Seelhammer, 94, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, in Brainerd, Minnesota.

A funeral Mass celebrating John’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Brainerd. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior to Mass, followed by a gathering in the church hall with food, photos, and memories to share. Private interment will be held at a later date at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.

John was born on December 7, 1931, in Cogswell, North Dakota, to Jacob “Jake” and Mary Lillian (Flesch) Seelhammer. He grew up helping in his family’s restaurant and general store, where he developed the strong work ethic and values that guided him throughout his life.

John served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 before attending North Dakota State University, where he earned an engineering degree. He enjoyed a long career as an industrial engineer, beginning with Boeing and later working for St. Cloud Hospital, Malco Tools, and the Minnesota Veterans Home.

John married Betty Jane Brausen in August 1956 in Pierz, Minnesota. Together they shared 70 years of marriage and raised six children. John was active in the Lions Club, Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and other community organizations. He also taught engineering at St. Cloud State University.

John was known for his kindness, curiosity, patience, and optimism. A talented builder and problem-solver, he was always fixing, creating, or improving something. His son Mark and friends affectionately nicknamed him “ROJ,” meaning “Right On John,” a fitting tribute to his careful, thoughtful nature and his “measure twice, cut once” approach to life. His family will remember his practical wisdom, playful spirit, and willingness to help others.

John is survived by his wife, Betty; children, Cynthia (Tom Marcinko) Seelhammer, Denise Seelhammer Ausderau, Joan (Dave) Becker, Renee (Derrick) Taylor, Mark (Luz González) Seelhammer, and Lisa (Bill) Smith; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Ralph and Wayne Seelhammer; and sisters Mary Jane Cady and Darlene Howbert.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Save the Children, the National Wildlife Federation, or the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

John’s family encourages those who knew him to carry his joy and optimism in their hearts and continue his example of making their communities better.