John Joseph Moryn Jr. (best known as "Big John") was born to John and Florence Moryn on July 10, 1931, to a large family that included 3 brothers and 4 sisters. He grew up in West St. Paul, Minnesota. He enlisted in the Navy in 1949 and served for almost 4 years. He met his wife, Edna Lois Ross, in 1953, and told his roommate the first night he met her, “I’m going to marry that girl.” They were married on April 30, 1955 and had 7 children, Jennifer (Tom) Zurick, Jeff (Ann), Jim (Lisa), Jodi (Jayson) Kadrmas, John, Joel (Shelly), and Julie (Jerry) Christensen. The family grew to include 21 grandchildren: Angela, Jeff, Katie, Andrew, Rachael, Sarah, Quinn, Jake, Connor, Jenni, Justin, Adam, Lexi, Caleb, Javen, Kelsen, Tyler, Nick, Jesse, Kelsey, Kyle and 13 great-grandchildren: Caden, Wyatt, Elyse, Jack, Joanie, Tyler, Chloe, Adelaide, Emery, Addisen, Bennett, Lincoln, Nolan, plus one on the way! 

John’s greatest pleasure was spending time with family. It started with family camping trips. However, Edna did not share his joy of the great outdoors, so he parked her comfortably in a lawn chair and setup the camp, played with the kids, and cooked and washed dishes over the campfire. John loved to cook and that included regular Sunday dinners where he and Edna prepared fabulous meals for up to 30 people each week. John enjoyed sports of all kinds – both watching and playing them. He bowled often, played fast-pitched softball, and was elected into the St. Paul Softball Hall of Fame. He and Edna enjoyed volleyball, horseshoes, golf, canoeing, and snowmobiling (Dresser Drift Busters). Their best memories included times with the “Dresser Group.” His passion then turned to cheering on all of his children and grandchildren in their activities. 

John was one of the founders of the Arcade-Phalen American Legion Post. He had many business ventures, but was best known for his work as a top salesman in the electrical wholesale business. He worked until he was 80 years old – he loved it so much. He was respected throughout the industry for his knowledge and expertise, and ability to get things done. He was known for his ready smile and kindness towards all.  

He had a great sense of humor and outlook on life. He had a colorful saying for everything. There was nothing left on his bucket list, except the Vikings winning the Super Bowl. He even got his first and only hole-in-one when he was 80. He truly lived each day to the fullest and appreciated all that life offered! 

Visitation will be held at the Rowe Funeral Home, 206 Second Avenue East, Luck, WI 54853 on Sunday, July 21, 2019 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday, July 22, 2019. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 22nd at Peace Lutheran Church, 2355 Clark Rd, Dresser, WI 54009 at 11:00 a.m. Private burial with Military Honors will be held at Fort Snelling on Tuesday. 

Last Update: Jul 18, 2019 8:46 am CDT