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John Hjelm Obituary
He was born on March 13, 1953 in Rockford, IL, the son of Marilyn (Johnson) Hjelm and the late Rev. John R. Hjelm Sr. He attended the Rockford Schools, graduating from Rockford East High School in 1971. He attended North Park University, earning his Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Psychology. John continued his education earning a Master's Degree in Health and Physical Education from Northwestern University, a Master's of Science in Exercise Physiology from Northeastern Illinois University, and a PhD in Health Education from The Ohio State University.
John married Elizabeth Anderson on May 19, 1979 at the First Covenant Church in Youngstown, OH. They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this year.
He was employed as a Professor of Exercise and Sport at North Park University for over 30 years. As a third generation alumnus, he was proud to be part of the North Park University Community. John was a member of the Libertyville Covenant Church, the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, the American College of Sports Medicine, and the American Association for Health Education. He enjoyed teaching, biking, and sports and would bring students on cross country ski trips to the U.P. and canoe trips to Ontario, Canada.
John is survived by his wife, Beth; daughters, Andra (Joe) Dalton of Libertyville, IL and Lisa (Paul) Cousineau of Caspian, MI; brothers, Timothy (Barb) Hjelm of Batavia, IL and Mark (Julie) Hjelm of North Bend, WA; grandchildren, Kajsa, Olivia, and Leija Dalton and Sven and Annalina Cousineau; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Libertyville Covenant Church (250 South St. Mary's Road in Libertyville, IL). Memorial gifts can be made to North Park University, Covenant Point Bible Camp, and/or Libertyville Covenant Church in his name.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of John R. Hjelm online at www.jacobsfuneralhomeir.com
Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Hjelm
Jim Dahlin
October 6, 2020
I would like to pass on my condolences to John’s family. He was such a wonderful guy. I have only had one teacher who really made a difference in my life and it was him(tears In my eyes). He helped me get into North Park, help me graduate and really made a difference in my life. He got me a wonderful internship. I started a successful business because of him. He just cared about me at a time when I really needed it. To his family and friends it just sucks. No other way to put it. I wish you the best and are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jim Dahlin
Scott and Elicia Henderson
September 22, 2019
Dear Beth and family,
We were so sorry to hear of John's passing. We remember with fondness the times we spent with you in Columbus at Faith Covenant Church while John was at OSU studying for his PhD. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Erik Stramel
September 21, 2019
This man helped me get my whole North Park career going. So sorry for your loss, he was a very nice guy! Condolences go out to the family.
Alice Kordek
September 21, 2019
Dear Beth,
So sorry to read about John's passing. Remembering our time together at Sprague. Stay strong. You and your family will be in my prayers. Alice Kordek
Madelynn Johnson
September 8, 2019
Sorry for your loss. Had many classes with him at East High. Great swimmer. Very polite shy guy.
Jack and Jeanne Marino
September 7, 2019
Dear Beth and family,
We were so sad to hear of John's passing. He was always so kind and caring, such a twinkle in his eye and his laughter was contagious. You and John were so welcoming to us when we first moved to the lake. Dinner on your screen porch early on are treasured memories. Ice cream at Happy Trails seeing you both with your children and grandchildren. We are better for knowing John.
you are in our thoughts and prayers,
Jack and Jeanne Marino
Grant & Dian Magnuson
September 5, 2019
Thank you for being such a great friend to the students of North Park and my children.
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Jacobs Funeral Home, Inc. of Iron River405 West Cayuga Street, Iron River, MI 49935
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