John Mark Rolandson, age 59, passed away at his home in Hibbing, Minnesota on Sunday, October 16th, 2016. He was born October 22nd, 1956, in Duluth, Minnesota, son to Martin and Rosie Rolandson. He spent his childhood growing up alongside his younger sister, Lorri, in Cotton, Minnesota, working at the El Toro Lounge and getting himself into typical adolescent mischief. He was a 1975 graduate of Cotton School, and then found his lifelong work at a local mine, Ev Tac, where he enjoyed spending time with his crew, drinking copious amounts of coffee, getting through midnight shifts with his unloading pocket partner, Don Kunnari, and spending 25+ years becoming the "JR" that everyone knew.

John loved his family more than anything. He was very proud of his son, David, and his daughter, Erin, attending their educational, sports, and music festivities over the years. He also was the first to initiate a family dinner, head over to his mom's house to watch the Sunday game, and call up his nephews to visit.

John had a strong appetite for life (and tasty food)! At home, he spent time watching movies, listening to music, cooking up stews in his crock pot, and reading up on the latest technology. When he was out and about, you could find him at his favorite restaurants (Sammy's and the Sportsmen's), supporting his local AA members, or catching a live band and dancing up a storm (especially to blues music). John also spent a lot of time outdoors fishing, camping, boating, taking photographs of nature, and attending the local stock car races. John enjoyed life and took full advantage of living it!

John is survived by his children: David Rolandson (Shannon Mulvany) of Minot, ND, and Erin (Aaron) Raukar of Crystal, MN; granddaughter, Hazel Raukar; mother, Rosie Rolandson of Virginia, MN; sister, Lorri (Steve) Butler of Virginia, MN; nephews: Zach (Chrissy) Butler and Nick Butler; great nephew, Lucas Butler; great niece, Zoey Butler; and previous wife, Michele Rolandson.

John was preceded in death by his father, Martin Rolandson, and grandparents, Peter and Hannah Rolandson.

A celebration of life and gathering for friends and family will be held on Friday, October 21, 2016, from 2:00-5:00pm in the Whispering Pines Room at the Hibbing Park Hotel.

Family services provided Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com .