JOHN ROY SUNDELL

John R. Sundell, 72 of Minnetonka, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 23rd at his favorite place in the world, the family cabin on Burntside Lake in Ely, MN. He is preceded in death by his mother, Blanche (Comer) Tepley, and siblings Anne (Sundell) Brown and Jeffrey Sundell Sr.

He is survived by his soulmate of 51 years, M. Diane (Dodson) Sundell, Jessica, Eric and Betsy (Elworthy), Chi and Thu Tran, his four grandchildren: Reyna, Boden, San, Junnie, sister Cathie (Lee) Schelinbarger, brother Paul (Pat) Duke, mother in law C. Andree Dodson and beloved animals.

John was a ‘69 graduate of Edina HS where he loved playing hockey and being with his friends. Later he studied at the U of MN.  In 1970, he met the love of his life, Diane, at Cass Lake Episcopal Camp. They wed in 1972, later welcoming their children.  Through their church, John and Diane fostered Chi Tran and grew their family.  John was a Financial Advisor for over 40 years until he retired in 2018.  He loved his job and advocating for his clients.  Through the years, John was passionate about playing guitar with his friends, hosting gatherings, and always having a Great Dane nearby. John was active with his Community Bible Study, yearly weekends at Demontreville, FreedomWorks, Mama Ada Foundation, Cass Lake Episcopal Camp, Prison ministries, and the Charis program.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, September 16th at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Minneapolis.  Visitation at 2:00 p.m., service at 3:00 p.m., with fellowship and refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to one of the following:  Contented Critters (Animal Shelter in Ely) Demontreville Jesuit Retreat House, or the Mama Ada Foundation.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home.

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