John M. Poetter

John Poetter was born June 22, 1929 in Blue Earth, MN to Erwin and Leone Poetter, the youngest of 3, John had 2 older sisters Eleanor and Betty. He died of natural causes and peacefully on April 21, 2020 surrounded by family in his home. John was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend.

John lived almost 91 years on the family farm east of Blue Earth in the original house that was built in 1868 by his great grandfather. The home was very important to John and in 1952, a major renovation was made by him adding its first bathroom. John was a great carpenter and craftsman. John made many renovations and additions with the family’s help.

He married Sylvia (Stade) Poetter in 1954 in Fairmont, MN and they adventurously honeymooned in Florida. Together they had 3 sons, Jeff, Dan and Steve. The family would travel all over the United States and even Europe, Canada and Mexico together. Many of John’s favorite memories were traveling the country in a motorhome. The couple celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary in February 2020 with all their children, grandchildren and great granddaughter.

John graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1948 and was already working as the 4th generation on the family farm which was established in 1868. This was his life’s work. John and his family also entered into a few other side businesses along the way.  He most enjoyed teaching his boys and working on the farm and in the fields with each of his sons. John semi-retired in 2001. Dan, his middle son and his grandson, Luke, carry on the operation today. As farming progressed into newer technology, John still remained semi-active and always wanted to help.

John always remained interested in the farming operation and until recently enjoyed his cart ride around the farm watching all that was going on each spring and fall.

One of the proudest parts of his later life was to watch his grandson, Luke, “the 6th generation of Poetters on the farm” continuing on the business and living on the farm. John was very proud of each of his 3 sons, 5 years apart, who all have used his guidance and lessons taught to help them with their own success in family and in business. John always enjoyed having his grandchildren come to visit him and was very proud of their many accomplishments. He was excited to meet his very first great granddaughter, Kaia, who was born to grandson, Adam and his wife, Angie in December.

John loved his sweets, including most types of pie. Baked beans, popcorn and sweet corn were also among his favorites. He was always up for a ride in the car, loved to shop for cars and campers, and spent countless hours socializing at their lake lot in Fairmont with family and friends. He also loved driving, camping and giving pontoon rides to those visiting the lake. John loved to visit and reminisce about the days gone by and what was to come.

Left to miss him greatly are his wife, Sylvia; sons. Jeff (Denise), Dan (Shellie), Steve (Kayla); grandchildren Adam (Angie), Jared, Luke, Lexi, Amanda, Kate and Max, and great granddaughter Kaia.

A private family graveside service will be held on Friday, April 24 at Riverside Cemetery in Blue Earth, MN.