John Emmette Broecker

John Broecker 87, of Lindstrom , Minnesota, went to his Lord on Saturday November 9, 2013. He was born July 17, 1926 to Henry and Emma Dorathea Broecker. One of seven children, John was second to the youngest. He resided in the Scandia and Lindstrom Communities all of his life.

John married Erma Stimel in 1952. Together they raised three daughters, Bonnie (Jonathon Glassel), Barbara ( Nick Rivera) and Becky ( Ron Lindholm). They produced six grandchildren: Keven and Kent Glassel, Nicole Rivera ( Isaias), Natalie Rivera( O’ Malley) , Ross Lindolm and Rachel Lindholm ( Hatfield). Along with five great grandchildren, Brendon and Isaac Glassel, Tyler Glassel, Aristeo Isaias and Emily Rose O’Malley. John was very active in his community, serving as Supervisor for Franconia Township, a member of the National Farmers Organization, the Farmers Union and sat on the Board of Directors for the Shafer Creamery. He was passionate about service to his country, carrying his Selective Service cards in his wallet since 1946. John served in the Army during WWII and the VFW #7262 until his death.

He was instrumental in getting the “ All Veterans Memorial “ erected to honor the service of Veterans of Chisago County. He also helped lead the committee to bring the Vietnam Memorial, “ Healing Wall” to the Lakes Area Community so all could pay respects. John gave of his time and money to serve his neighbors and those in need. John farmed the Broecker Family farm for more than 70 years. He has a deep love of working the land, especially with Draft horses. He could be seen yearly at the “ Minnesota Draft Horse Field Days, horse pulls and expos. He made time to work with the horses in the field with his many pieces of horse drawn equipment, which he called his “Toys”. He gave many rides to friends and family on his Amish built Vis-à-vis, ( Carriage) at weddings, parades, sleigh rides and just for fun. He never missed a chance to “Take the horses out for a drive.”

John was a vocal man when it came to local and state politics, either campaigning and being quoted in the newspapers in regard to his views. He has been referenced as a “Pillar of the community.” His favorite past time was having donuts with his friends at Lindstrom Bakery.

John is preceded in death by his four brothers, Floyd, Wayne, Dean and Glen and one sister Pearl. He is survived by his sister Ruby, his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. John was a Faithful and Loyal Servant of his Lord Jesus Christ, as a member of Elim Lutheran in Scandia and Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom for 73 years. Visitation services will be held at Grandstrand Funeral home Friday, November 15, from 4-5 pm for Family and 5-8 pm for the public. The Funeral service will be at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom on Saturday November 16, 2013 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at the Panola Cemetery. John loved people and loved life to the fullest. “Well done good and loyal servant”