Obituary of John Elstad

Age 95, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother, passed away on February 5, 2014 after a long and joyful life. He was born May 20, 1918 to Christian and Charlotte Elstad. At 22, he entered the Army Air Corp and flew as a P-38 air reconnaissance pilot. After flying a mission in Germany, he was shot down in Italy, taken prisoner, and spent the last year of the war in a German POW camp. He indulged his family, allowing us to compile a book that chronicles his military experience which is now in the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. After the war, John returned to work at 3M where he rose through the ranks as an executive in Traffic Safety Systems. He was bright and driven, a classic self-made member of the "greatest generation." John was truly a "Jack" of all trades and could repair or build anything. John married Tennie May Oman on August 26, 1946. They had a wonderful life together that included travel, sports, and family activities. He and Tennie particularly loved spending time with family and friends at the Big Sandy Lake cabin that he designed and built. He tirelessly supported the children's interests in academics, sports, and music and he loved being a grandfather and great grandfather. John always looked out for others and actively sought out ways to help those needing assistance. He is survived by children Mark (Debra), Cindy Nelson (Gordon), and Nancy (Mark Johnson) and grandchildren Blake Wigdahl (Rachel Kelly) and Matt Wigdahl (Jane) and great-granddaughters Chloe and Heidi. He was predeceased by his wife, parents, and brother (Robert). The family gives special thanks to Dr. Craig Mommsen for years of oustanding care. Memorials preferred to The Homestead at Maplewood or Fairview Hospice in appreciation for their loving care and support. A celebration of his life will be held at North Church Presbyterian, 2675 Hwy 36 E, North St. Paul, MN 55109 on Sunday February 16 (1:00 pm visitation, 2:00 pm memorial service). Interment will be Friday February 14 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery (10:00 am).