Dwaine Edward Troje

He was a man of deep Catholic faith, guided throughout his life by prayer, devotion, and trust in God’s love. His steady strength, unwavering kindness, and generous heart touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Born to Edward Troje and Helen (Smith) Westervelt, Dwaine grew up with a deep sense of family, responsibility, compassion, and generosity. Those early values shaped the man he became: steady, humble, giving, and endlessly devoted to the people he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Helen, and his sister, Sharon Stewart.

Dwaine shared a lifetime of partnership with his beloved wife, Janet Troje, creating a home filled with warmth, humor, and enduring commitment. Together, they raised three daughters: Jodie, Jill, and Julie.

Dwaine proudly served in the United States Navy for two years, carrying the discipline and commitment he learned there throughout his life. Following his time in the Navy Dwaine worked as an electrician at Koch Oil Refinery for 38 years. He was respected for his strong work ethic, dedication, and reliability. He took pride in doing every job the right way and built lifelong friendships with coworkers who admired his steady hands, sharp mind, and unwavering commitment to quality.

Dwaine lived his Catholic faith in daily, intentional ways. He was well known for “rattling the beads,” praying the Rosary faithfully every single day. His prayers included his family, his friends, and anyone who needed spiritual support. His devotion grounded him throughout his life and brought strength to those he loved.

Dwaine found immeasurable joy in being “Papa.” He adored his grandchildren Anna and Maria (daughters of Jodie and her husband

Mark Zesbaugh), Tyler, Kyle, and Natalie (children of Jill Anderson), and Nolan, Drew, and Trenton (children of Julie and her husband Todd Pehrson). Each held a special place in his heart, and he poured humor, pride, and love into every one of them.

His joy grew even deeper with his great-grandchildren. Ryan, the son of Tyler and Savannah Anderson, and Jett and Jagger, the sons of Nolan and Nicole Pehrson, brought him tremendous happiness. Their smiles and energy were blessings he treasured.

Dwaine never missed a concert, sporting event, dance recital, or special moment. His unwavering support became something of a legend, seen by families and friends who spotted him in the stands, in the audience, or on the sidelines, always cheering with pride.

His grandchildren will forever remember his big, booming laugh, his playful teasing, and the sense of humor that filled every room he entered. His jokes, stories, songs, and unmistakable laugh brought joy and connection wherever he went.

Dwaine also held a special place in the hearts of his extended family members, friends, neighbors, and walking buddies all of whom felt his steady kindness and lively presence. He had a deep love for animals, especially the horses and pets he cared for throughout his life.

Dwaine’s absence leaves an ache that cannot be filled, but his life leaves a lasting legacy. His family finds comfort in knowing he lived a life rich with love, faith, purpose, laughter, generosity, and gentle compassion.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Janet; his daughters and their spouses, Jodie and Mark Zesbaugh, Jill Anderson and Ben Hallas, and Julie and Todd Pehrson; his grandchildren and great grandchildren and all who were touched by his warmth, kindness, and laughter.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Catholic Community Foundation in Dwaine’s memory.

May he rest in peace.

Visitation will be held Thursday, December 4, 2025 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Wulff Woodbury Funeral Home, 2195 Woodlane Dr., Woodbury, MN 55125.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, December 5, 2025 at 10:30 am with Visitation one hour prior to service, from 9:30 - 10:30 am at St. Ambrose of Woodbury Catholic Church, 4125 Woodbury Dr., Woodbury, MN 55125. Private interment Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.