John Pearson

John Eric Pearson of New Brighton, died at age 62 on July 28, 2023 after a five month battle with a many faceted illness that his heart could not survive. Preceded in death by his parents Bert and Majken, and sister-in-law Donna Manley. Survived by his loving wife MauNghi, son Eric, daughter Anna, sister Annie, niece Kate, and a large and loving extended family and many great friends.

John grew up in Northeast Minneapolis, attending Edison High School. He graduated from Augsburg college with a BS degree, and went on to grad school at the University of Minnesota. He then went to work for NASA, working on the earth's magnetic field. He then changed careers and entered teaching as a physics and chemistry teacher, mainly at Southwest High School in Minneapolis, for 30 years. He loved organizing hands-on lab experiments for his students, and was always willing to spend extra time helping students and fellow teachers. John concentrated on living in the moment, enjoying the conversation or the sunset he was experiencing. But it also led to many late arrivals.

John loved the BWCA, downhill skiing, ballroom dancing and going to estate sales in search of treasures.  He was a lifelong horseback rider, who found much solace in trail riding.  But most of all he loved his family.  Coming to fatherhood later in life made family all the more sweet.  He enjoyed spending time with his children and he was proud of who his children have become.

Visitation will be on August 13 from 5-7pm at Billman Hunt Funeral Home, 2701 Central Avenue, Minneapolis.  A service will be held on August 14 at 11am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 835 2nd Avenue, New Brighton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Columbia Manor from 12-4pm, 3300 Central Avenue, Minneapolis, immediately following the service.

Memorials in John’s honor are preferred to organizations of the donor’s choice that support education and social good in lieu of flowers.

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