John "Jack" Stodola

Jack Stodola, at the age of 76, died peacefully on June 22, 2024 in his daughter's home with her by his side, his niece standing next to him, and holding his sister's hand, while God called him back home.

A classic car enthusiast, Jack loved all things associated with cars and speed: Back to the 50’s weekend, the Daytona 500, and all things NASCAR-related. He never missed a chance to get out and talk with his buddies, neighbors, customers, and anyone who was willing to talk cars.

Jack was also a member of the Plumbers Union of St. Paul, MN. He wore many hats in the business world: owner of AE Nelson Plumbing & Heating, Budget Foreign Auto Parts, Gold Star Auto Body and All Star Plumbing. You always knew where Jack was because he drove his beloved plumbing truck EVERYWHERE he went; get-togethers with friends or family, church, his granddaughter’s school, or sporting events. If the truck was in any parking lot you knew Jack was nearby.

Jack was born and raised in St. Paul and was a Monroe High School grad. He was a veteran of the US Army, where he was stationed in Alaska. He loved a good Carbone’s pizza, but only from the shop on Randolph Ave in St. Paul. The owners knew him personally and loved when he and Gary would come by for lunch on a weekly basis.

He was also a devoted dad, grandpa, brother, ‘Unkie’ and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. We know his liver is restored to good health and we are assured he is at peace and no longer suffering.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, John and Edna Stodola; brother-in-law, Ken Tonn; his favorite uncles, Joe and Jim Stodola; and his 4 legged friends, Jake and Buddy.

He will be deeply missed by all who loved him, including his two children, Julie (Paul) Thomas and John (Krista Aguero) Stodola; sister, Judy Tonn; and his two beautiful granddaughters, Jenna and Katie Thomas.

 ‘Unkie’ will be forever missed by his nephews, Mike Tonn and Mark (Shannon) Tonn; his favorite niece, Michelle (Dan) Glomb; along with the great-nieces and -nephew, Nick, Natalie & Taylor and Trina, Noah & Briella.

Jack's love of family and friends knew no limit; left to cherish his memory are his Best Friend of 50 years, Tom (Faye) Flaherty; his lifetime friend, Gary ‘Goose’ Krivinek; Monroe High School buddy, Lyod; and Charlie Votel.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Friday, June 28 at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes (Mass will be livestreamed starting at 10:25 AM Friday at https://www.youtube.com/@stjosephofthelakes ).

Visitation at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home-Lino Lakes, 7050 Lake Dr. (County Hwy 23) from 4-7 PM Thursday and at the church from 9:30-10:30 AM Friday. 

Private family burial at a later date. Please email family for details.

Special thanks to the nursing staff at Hallmark Home Care, our special PCA nurse Chris for her forever loving care and friendship, and Gentiva Hospice.

Memorials preferred to the family to be divided between dad’s two favorite charities: St Paul K9 Foundation and Soldiers 6.