John Bjerke
February 19, 1936 - September 18, 2024
Obituary
Madison - John David Bjerke, age 88, passed away on Sep. 18, 2024 at the Veteran’s hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. Born on Feb. 19, 1936 in Sparta, Wisconsin, he was the first born to David and Annabelle Bjerke (nee Meyers).
Growing up in Sparta, he was an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts and graduated from Sparta High School in 1953 at the age of 17. After a short period at UW-Madison he joined the Army in 1955. He was stationed overseas in Frankfurt Germany for much of his service and was able to travel around Europe gathering many memories. After the Army he studied at UW-LaCrosse earning a Bachelor’s degree in a double major of History and English.
John was married to Kathryn (nee Kuhn) from 1968 to 1976 and they had 2 children- Laurie first, in 1970 and then Daniel in 1973.
A Librarian at Deforest High School for 28 years, this fit in well with his lifelong love of reading. The other things he really enjoyed in life were vacationing with family and friends, he made it to every state in the U.S. except Hawaii, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
He valued his membership at St. Peter’s Catholic Church and donated to several organizations including Environmental and Wildlife Conservation groups and St. Joseph’s Indian School.
He is survived by his children Dan (Mischelle) and Laurie (Steve); grandchildren, Trent (Sarah), Jenna, Logan and Lillia; and his brothers Jim and Tom (Pat).
He is preceded in death by his parents David and Annabelle Bjerke; his brothers Robert and Richard, and sister Ann.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 5001 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI on Friday, September 27. The Visitation will be from 9:30am to 11:00am with the mass starting at 11am. This will be followed by a procession to Highland Memory Gardens for the burial and then returning to St. Peter’s for a meal. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N Sherman Ave
608-249-8257
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Memories
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M Katherine Eagan
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I havve fond memories of Mr. Bjerke from the DeForest schools. Thinking of your family today and during these days ahead. M Katherine Raab Eagan.
LJ
Lisa J
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My condolences to your entire family. Laurie, we had some fun times at DHS. I hope life is treating you well. ♥️🫂
KG
Kate Grinde
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He was a wonderful librarian and teacher of AV skills. When I think of the faulty who made a big difference in my life, "Mr. Bjerke" is one of them.
CM
Colleen Martin-Guenther
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Laurie, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. I remember meeting him once a long time ago, and still remember what a kind man he was. Please know that I am thinking of you all and sending my sympathy. Colleen Martin-Guenther
TC
Tom Christiano
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So sorry for the loss of your father Laurie and Danny. We have so many badger game memories of your dad especially the stale pork rinds he would bring to tailgate parties lots of fun He was definitely one of a kind!! Love, Tom and Gena Christiano
BR
Becky V Ramos
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Laurie, Dan and Your Families, I'm am sending you my Love and healing blessings. Your Dad was a Wonderful Father and Grandfather. Take the process of your loss one step at a time. Love you all From Florida ❤️🩹