John Donald Mukavetz

He was born in Laurium, Michigan to John and Margaret Mukavetz and later went to Calumet High School nearby. John attended the University of Minnesota-Duluth and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. John later received a Master's degree in Education at Wisconsin State University-Superior in 1970. Afterwards, John also went to the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul where he obtained a degree as an education specialist. John completed his thesis titled, "A History of the South Washington County School District".

John served in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1960. John achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant as a jet engine mechanic, serving in many parts of the world including Newfoundland, Greenland, and Duluth, Minnesota. He received the National Defense Service Medal.

He married Mildred "Millie" Skarich on September 8, 1956 in Chisholm, Minnesota after returning from Newfoundland. John taught in Duluth, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin shortly after he and Millie were married. Later, John and Millie relocated to St. Paul, Minnesota and then Phoenix, Arizona where he continued to teach.

John loved to read. He had a good rapport with the students he taught, working with their parents, along with the faculty he worked with. He was very compassionate about his service as an educator. John was a member of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals Association. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the Phoenix Suns.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred Mukavetz; his sister-in-law, Beverly Campbell; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services for John will be held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery on July 21, 2025, starting with his visitation and viewing at 10:00 am. The funeral service will follow at the same venue at 11:00 am, with John's graveside ceremony with USAF military honors afterwards, all services occuring at 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248, on July 21, 2025, at 12:00 pm.