John Paul Kalwasinski

John Paul Kalwasinski, 58, of Rochester, passed away Saturday, January 5, 2019 after a brief battle with cancer. John was born February 26, 1960 in Evergreen Park, IL to Frank and Vivian (Moore) Kalwasinski. He was a 1978 graduate of St. Francis DeSales High School in Chicago, IL and went on to receive his bachelor degree from Concordia College. On May 26, 1984, John married Karen Zdzinicki. He worked as a financial analyst at IBM for 37 years and retired in 2018. John was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and was a member of The Knights of Columbus. He loved to travel to the Caribbean, Aruba and most recently The Grand Canyon. John and Karen also enjoyed traveling to destinations that included Margaritaville, which helped fuel his love and passion for music. Along with music, John loved sports and sports statistics. He was a huge Chicago Bears and Notre Dame fan. John was known for his famous meatloaf, could fix just about anything after tinkering with it long enough and spent countless hours rocking in his rocking chair. He was a strong willed, hard working and proud man. He had a boisterous personality, and loved entertaining family and friends. Above all, John was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Karen; children, Steven (Jennie Gappa) Kalwasinski of Madelia, MN, Daniel Kalwasinski of Rochester, Brian (Courtney) Kalwasinski of Tonka Bay, MN, Michael Kalwasinski of Rochester, Lauren Kalwasinski of Rochester; grandson, Barrett Kalwasinski; sisters, Frances (Jack) Smith of Lebanon, TN, Susan (John) Matejko of Reno, NV and several nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Vivian. A Memorial Mass to celebrate John's life will be held 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 11, 2019 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 5455 50th Ave. NW, Rochester, Father Tom Loomis celebrant. Visitation will be held 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 10, 2019 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes of Rochester are honored to be serving the Kalwasinski family; special memories or condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.ranfranzandvinefh.com