John Patrick Orchard, a resident of North Branch, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on November 25th, surrounded by his loving family. Born in St. Paul, John was a devoted family man and a respected member of his community throughout his life.
John Orchard was the third of seven children born to Timm and Eveline Orchard. After completing his education, John proudly served his country by enlisting in the Navy. His time in the Navy allowed him to travel extensively, experiencing the cultures of Germany, Spain, and Italy, among other countries. These formative years broadened his horizons and instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for different cultures.
Upon returning from his naval service, John Orchard found the love of his life, Kathleen Ann Segl. They married in 1967 and together built a beautiful family, welcoming their sons Patrick in 1969 and James in 1972. In 1977, John and Kathleen made North Branch, Minnesota their home, where John resided for the rest of his life, deeply rooting himself in the local community.
Professionally, John Orchard dedicated many years of his career as a skilled crane operator for American Hoist. Later, in 1988, he transitioned to Concordia College in St. Paul, taking on the role of lead groundskeeper. This position held special significance for John as it allowed him to work alongside his son, James, for the last decade of his 20-year tenure at the college, before his well-earned retirement. He took immense pride in maintaining the grounds of Concordia and in his shared work with James.
John cherished family above all else. He enjoyed memorable family trips, actively participated in his church community, and dedicated himself to raising his sons alongside Kathleen. Following Kathleen’s passing in 2015, John found companionship and joy in spending time with his eldest son, Patrick. They shared many adventures camping and fishing, hunting for treasures at flea markets and garage sales, enjoying occasional visits to casinos, and gathering with loved ones at local booyas.
In 2020, John Orchard warmly welcomed his daughter-in-law, Milissa, into his family, embracing her with open arms and affection.
John was predeceased by his father, Timm D. Orchard Sr., his mother, Eveline Orchard, his beloved wife, Kathleen Orchard, and his brothers Timm D. Orchard and Warden B. Orchard.
He is survived by his loving sons, Patrick Orchard and James Orchard; his daughter-in-law, Milissa Orchard; his step-grandsons, Logan and Noah Becker; his sisters, Adeline (Dolly) McGinn, Mary Orchard, Michelle Orchard, and Judith Orchard; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. John Orchard’s legacy of love, dedication, and family will be cherished by all who knew him.
Services to celebrate John’s life will be held at Kessler Maguire Funeral Home, located at 640 West 7th St., Saint Paul, MN 55102, on Thursday, December 5th at 11 AM. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
