John A. Koepke

Age 84, of Circle Pines. Passed away on November 29, 2021 due to complications from pneumonia.  Preceded in death by wife, Karna; parents, John Albert and Alice; and brother, James. Survived by children, Diana (Mark) Waldoch, Steve, Mike (Reesa), Rick, and Gary; grandchildren, Alex, Zach, Trevor, Hayley, Chad, Lauren, Sam, Tara, Anna, and Megan; sisters, Geri, Joleen, and Jeannie; and his beloved dog, Britta.​John (Jack) enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and while stationed in Lincoln, NE he met Karna, who was attending school in Lincoln. They were married in 1959 and took up residence in Circle Pines in the early 1960s.​Jack was employed by Paper Calmenson & Co. for over 40 years and drove school bus on a part time basis in the early 1970s. He coached baseball for approx. 15 years, Little League through various traveling teams, with one or more sons on his team most every year. Jack and Karna were avid fans and supporters of Centennial High School athletics and other school activities. Hobbies that Jack enjoyed included watching sporting events, gardening, fishing, bird watching, and casino time, and he enjoyed listening to classic country, from Kitty Wells to Merle Haggard.​Jack attended St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church and his faith and love of God were very important to him. He loved his wife and family dearly, and was proud of their accomplishments.​Private family service.