John M. Bratt - beloved husband, father, and grandfather - peacefully left this world February 19, 2026.  Born in Eveleth, MN on May 8, 1935 to Lawrence and Leone Bratt, John was a 1953 graduate of Eveleth Highschool and went on to earn a Mining Engineering degree at the University of Minnesota. 

John married Mary Rasmussen on June 20, 1959 and their marriage of 66 years is a testament to the love and partnership they shared.  Their love story took them many places: Hibbing, MN; Iron River, MI; Salt Lake City, UT; Saudi Arabia; Houston, TX; and Edina, MN. Their journey included raising two wonderful children who accompanied them on their world travels.  

Retiring to his beloved Ely Lake in 1994, John was an active member of the former Eveleth Methodist Church and the current Virginia Methodist Church.  He was also a member of the Eveleth-Fayal Garden Club, Eveleth Masonic Lodge and the Mesabi Curling Club where he participated until age 88.  He volunteered at the Salvation Army and enjoyed a Thursday morning men’s breakfast group. 

John planted many trees and gardens; took many walks; enjoyed saunas and swims in Ely Lake; entertained his grandchildren; fed birds and duck families and traveled with Mary to many wonderful countries.  An avid reader, he had a special interest in World War II history.  

                John leaves behind his devoted wife Mary, son Glenn Bratt (Sharon) and daughter Merrilee Bratt, both in Eden Prairie, MN, grandson Benjamin Bratt of Dallas, TX, granddaughter Marissa Bratt of St. Paul, MN, many beloved cousins, his grand dogs Fernanda and Pluto together with a friendly chipmunk Alvina.  

                Immense thanks to the staff at New Journey Eveleth and East Range Hospice who tenderly cared for John the past 9 months along with neighbors Ed and Lisa Kirchner for their constant support.  

Donations in John’s memory may be made to Peace Methodist Church of Virginia, MN, Eveleth - Fayal Garden Club, and East Range Hospice. A celebration of John’s life will be held this summer.

Family services are provided by Bauman-Cron, a Bauman Family Funeral Home, in Virginia.  To express condolences online please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.