John Monroe Hafterson

John Monroe Hafterson, 82, of Pine Island, went to be with his Lord on Monday, November 16, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Fertile, MN on November 19, 1937 to Edwin and Ida (Gulbranson) Haftorson. He graduated from Fertile High School in 1955. He served in the United States Marines Corps for 1 year and 3 months and was honorably discharged on September 1, 1956. Then he went on to finish out his three years in the Navy.  He was united in marriage to Athenia Culver on September 10, 1960.  He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota, Duluth and graduated Summa Cum Laude.  He then went to Michigan State University where he earned his Masters and was a dissertation away from earning his PHD. He worked 3 years for the Council for Exceptional Children in the Washington, D.C. area before returning to Minnesota. John worked in the data processing area of the Hennepin County Library Systems for 27 years, working his way up to becoming Manager of Data Processing.  Some things John really enjoyed were spending time with his grandchildren, golfing, singing, swimming, hiking and animals, especially the many dogs that we had. After retirement he spent a lot of time on his computer playing games and blogging.  He also enjoyed going to church and being able to use his talent of singing to bless others in the congregation.

He is survived by his wife, Athenia of Pine Island; three children, Jonna Burke of Pine Island, Thane (Sheryl Dwinell) Hafterson of Madison, WI, and Peace (Dude, Sr.) Jaway of Boise, ID; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Leroy Haftorson, Vera Ilene Serviss, and Laverne Haftorson.

A graveside service will be held at the Oronoco Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 18, 2020. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.