John Eddie Baethke

John “Jack” was born in Cresco on January 10, 1949, the son of Reuben and Charlotte (Schlee) Baethke. Jack learned how hard work could lead to success at an early age. He started his first job with a paper route, swept floors at the local 5 & dime store, then after graduating from Cresco High School in 1967 went on to become an entrepreneur and realtor. While living with his family in Zimmerman, MN he joined the Zimmerman Fire Department and volunteered for 20 years. In his retirement years, Jack and Jan embraced South Texas as their new home. He enjoyed golfing daily and meeting “his coffee guys” at What-A-Burger.

Jack was a devoted son, husband, brother, father, uncle and friend. He married the love of his life Janis in 1969. They had two daughters Tonia and Kristi and two great son-in-laws Nicholas (Tonia) and Troy (Kristi). Then they were blessed with one beautiful granddaughter, Emily who always put a twinkle in “Grandpa’s eye”.

John is survived by Jan (Nogle) Baethke of Elk River, MN; his daughters, son-in-laws, and granddaughter, a beloved nephew Luke Baethke and nieces, Katrina Zimmermann (Anderson) & Kelda Anderson. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, brother David Baethke (Cresco, IA), and in-laws Charles Nogle (Elk River, MN) & Evelyn Olson (Minneapolis, MN) and many aunts and uncles.

Jack will be remembered for his sense of humor, kind actions, and genuine caring-heart.

There will be a celebration of life in Texas later this year and one in Minnesota in the summer of 2025.