John Harold Irgens passed away on April 27, 2018, at the age of 73. Born in Glenwood, he graduated from Glenwood High School and the University of Minnesota, Morris. Drafted into the U.S. Marine Corps, John served in the Vietnam War. After his discharge, he earned an accounting degree from St. Cloud State.

John spent many years in Roseville before retiring and returning to his hometown of Glenwood. He worked for over 25 years with Ramsey County, where he brought joy to many—especially during the holidays when he played Santa Claus for residents at his workplace. Known for his love of golf, fishing and hunting, John also enjoyed home projects and was always tinkering with something around the house.

A devoted sports fan, he especially loved watching golf tournaments, NBA and college basketball in the spring, and both NFL and college football games. He also had a passion for classic Westerns and war movies. John served for many years as treasurer for the Northern Flight Chapter of the Minnesota Waterfowl Association.

John is survived by his son, Brian; granddaughter, Emily; sister, Gwen Garner; and several nieces and nephews. His sister, Gretchen Sylvester, passed away in 2020.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Glenwood Lutheran Cemetery on Memorial Drive in Glenwood, on Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. to celebrate John’s life.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be sent to: Glenwood Lutheran Cemetery Fund, 206 Minnesota Avenue East, Glenwood, MN 56334, or Minnesota Waterfowl Association, c/o Northern Flight Chapter, 907 First St. North, Hopkins, MN 55343.