John Charles Kuehnow

John Charles  Kuehnow, age 82 was born in Duluth, MN, on March 17, 1940, and passed away peacefully, with his beloved wife Mary by his side, on November 9, 2023.

John’s spirit thrived on adventure. He traveled to Russia, China, the Mid East, New Zealand, Australia and Europe. He loved hunting and fishing in Canada. He had a special connection to the people and the is­land of Little Exuma, Bahamas. He traveled to Central America sharing his faith and providing technical assistance and support to early-stage entrepreneurs. He loved cars and car racing, worked as a sponsor li­aison for a Sports Car Club of Amer­ica Trans Am team traveling the country, and participated in grass roots dirt track racing. He was also an avid golfer, spending winters on Hilton Head, SC.

John dedicated six honorable years to serving in the U.S. Army starting in 1958. Following his military serv­ice, he embarked on a fulfilling career in the grocery business, chas­ing a dream that had ignited in his youth, to own a grocery store one day. Joining Red Owl, John swiftly demonstrated his tireless work eth­ic and unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the years, his per­sistence and dedication enabled him to ascend the professional ranks, transitioning from store management to the role of regional manager overseeing multiple loca­tions. Fueled by his entrepreneurial spirit, John seized the chance to re­alize his dream, becoming an owner and operator of a successful gro­cery store. His vision and determi­nation eventually transformed his enterprise into a thriving chain of stores spanning three states.

John’s commitment extended be­yond his professional endeavors, as he was deeply devoted to his family and his faith. He prioritized quality time with his loved ones, fostering strong bonds and offering unwaver­ing support. His good humor and commitment to both nurturing and leading with a positive, uplifting spirit set a remarkable example for his loved ones.

 John is survived by his wife, Mary Kuehnow: and their combined family, including children, Lars (Lisa) Kuehnow, Linda (Yul) Vazquez, Deborah Weinstock, Sher­ry Elwell,and Craig (Kristi) Weinstock: seven grandchildren:;six great­-grandchildren; a niece and nephew:and his brother,Alan..

He is wel­comed into Heaven by those who preceded him in death: his parents, Alfred Kuehnow and Jennie & Louis Clifford; brother ,Paul; and grandson, Eric.

John’s memory will be honored at a memorial service on Sunday, November 26, at 3 pm at Kehilat Sar Shalom, 2734 Rhode ls­land Ave S., St. Louis Park, MN 55426.
The family welcomes all to join in remembering and paying tribute to a life well-lived. John’s spirit, warmth, and love will forever remain in our hearts, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

John was buried with military hon­ors on Nov. 14 at the MN State Vet­erans Cemetery-Duluth. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations to the Comfort House in Pella, IA.

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