John Finley Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
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Your Sister
May 27, 2021
You were my protector. You always had my back and I knew I could count on you no matter what. This year I am extremely sad, broken hearted, that you're not here.
Diane Dodd
June 30, 2009
I was very sad and shocked to hear about Judge Finley passing away. I'd like to send my heartfelt sympathy to his family. I appeared before him many times as a juvenile public defender. In May of this year, I had a case before him out in the Maplewood courthouse. I went back in chambers to speak to him before court started and it was the first time I had seen him since his retirement. I had to miss his retirement party because of my husband's recent death. I told him I was sorry about missing his party and he invited me to come in and talk. He expressed sympathy for my husband's death and he told me he knew the difficulty I was going through because of a family member of his who lost her husband unexpectedly. I really appreciated his compassion, words of encouragement, and willingness to discuss this with me. We had to stop talking when the clerk came to ask that he start court, but I felt very good about our conversation and will always be thankful for that time I had with him.
Amy Johnson (Hines)
June 11, 2009
Please know that your family is foremost in my prayers at this time. I knew Michele growing up, and in fact, not a single childhood memory does not include memories of your family. I feel incredibly blessed to have known Mr. Finley and all of you. Heaven is celebrating and toasting John's homecoming.
Pat Sullivan
June 8, 2009
Jackie & Family:
My prayers go out for you and your family.Such a shock to me. John was a dear friend for 50 years both as a classmate,adult life and business. A wonderful person that did much for many. I'm sure the gates above are open for him to enter freely. I will truly miss him.
Pat Sullivan
Alamo, Texas
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barry johnson
June 7, 2009
My thought and prayers are with you all. I will always remember John and your family from the "old" days at Breezy Point. I will never forget John's kindness, integrity, and his wonderful sense of humor and smile. Also, the great "time" we had golfing at 5:00 am without any sleep, spending time with his kids, and all the other memories from Breezy. He was a great man with a great family. I am deeply saddened to learn of the loss at such a young age. My prayers are with you.
God Bless! Barry Johnson
Judge Elena Ostby
June 6, 2009
To the Finley family: Please accept my heartfelt sympathies to you during this particularly difficult time. I was shocked and saddened to learn of this news while out of town attending a national conference on child abuse and neglect. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the funeral. I will fondly remember John's smile and wonderful sense of humor.
With sincere condolences.
Jim Riley
June 6, 2009
Jackie and family, I am so sad that John has left us and I want to express my sympathy for you and your entire family. But I know he is bringing joy and some good times to wherever he is at! He was always good to me and my family and was actually one of my favorite "cousin-in-laws"!
June 5, 2009
Jackie--My deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of John. He was a very special person and was a joy to all who knew him. I met him just recently after the St. Lukes BB team had a reunion and reconnected with Jerry. Many good times were recalled and the recent summer reunions with "the team" have been so special for Jerry. Cherish the memories. Vonnie Kennealy
Roberta Singerhouse
June 5, 2009
To the family of Judge Finley, I was a case manager at one time and spent several times in Judge Finley's courtroom. I don't know him personally, but can tell you that I had a great respect for him and his decisions. He was a fair judge and his decisions were well thought out. I want you to know that he impacted my life and I think he did the same for everyone that passed through his courtroom. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family-
Toni Wetzel
June 5, 2009
Annette, Casey,Pat and Family, I send heartfelt sympathy from the Wetels. John always smiled and that is the memory I have of him now. I read your kind note to Dutch about our Mom, Casey. Many thanks from me,too. Toni
Trevor and Rachelle Nelko
June 5, 2009
Bridget and family,
We are so sorry to hear about your great abrupt loss. Only in the few minutes that I had a chance to meet your dad this past weekend, I was amazed at how sincere and kind he was. May your memories comfort you during this tough time. He will always be there for you.
June 5, 2009
Jackie, Bridget and Rob:
You are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this time of grieving.
Doug and Sue Toavs
Lisa (Riley) Schuldes
June 5, 2009
Jackie and family, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers even though we cannot be there with you.
June 4, 2009
Jackie and Children:
I met John when I worked for Ramsey County and once you met John Finley you never forgot him. He was so much fun and made you feel like you have been his friend forever. Although I never met you Jackie, I felt I knew you because John talked about you all the time. He loved you so much.
I am at a loss of words at the absence of this great guy.
Jackie Davis, Coon Rapids, MN
jeff roberts
June 4, 2009
No Words Jeff Roberts
June 4, 2009
Our prayers are with the whole Finley family.I knew John from St. Lukes grade school[ new & old] & my wife Lois was in his class in grade school[ Lois Van Danacker]We played basketball& baseball at st. Lukes & Cretin. John was a very hard worker, which carried over into his successful life. I was one year younger than Pat thru school[ HI PAT]& played sports with him also.They were two of the nicest people to play & compete with that I had ever met. So I guess that in the future, If it gets a little tough, maybe just remember John at his best, & sing the CRETIN ROUSER to yourself. It has helped me in tough times. MIKE & LOIS LEIER
Nancy
June 4, 2009
John,
I'm so sorry for the loss of your father. My prayers go to you and your family.
Jill Buxbaum
June 4, 2009
Jackie, John, Michele, and Bridget-
I am soo sorry for your loss. I spent many Easters with the family through our college years and had the pleasure of getting to know John very well. I will definitely miss hearing the old stories, and will never forget the ones about his athletic days at Cretin. I am just glad to know that you all have each other because I know that will help tremendously in getting through this time. Michele-I love you and your family and am here for whatever you may need.
Dick Kling
June 4, 2009
Jackie and family:
This is a guy that will be truly missed. From our days at Cretin, the 58 lunches, the 50 year reunion, his smiling face would light up the room. And these days we'd kid him about being the only guy with dark hair. I remember asking him about when he was going to retire and he'd say, with almost a straight face -- you know, some days being a judge isn't that different than being retired.
Truly one of a kind
Jeff Gisselbeck
June 4, 2009
Dear Finley Family, I was truley shocked to here of the passing of Judge Finley. I met him for the first time this spring at the Breezy Point Golf Tournament. He seemed to be at the center of the action with everyone. He told stories of my father from years past. He made me feel like i have known him for a lifetime. I was thankful to get the opportunity to meet him. His great character and future stories will be missed.
Joe Krammer
June 4, 2009
Peace to you
Tom/Jenny Riley
June 4, 2009
Dearest Jackie, Bridget, Johnny, Michele and families:
Our brother in law has left a huge empty spot in our hearts! So many memories, so many years of knowing John and proud to have had him in our family. The Heavens just got a new smiling angel, a unique loving smile that we will never forget. He was the brother I never had. May our God keep you all in His hands as you travel this lonely road without your loving husband, father and grandfather. Lovingly, Tommy and Jenny
Larry Brandenburg
June 3, 2009
John was my cousin and though we didn't have much contact during our lives, I know he was always kind enough to help our family members when we needed it.
Slainte!
Tim and Iwona Costigan
June 3, 2009
To the Finley's, especially Jr.:
I am very sorry to hear the news about John, (Wad Pocket). I had the privelage of meeting your Honor when I was roommates with Jr. at SCSU and have had great times with him every summer up north, it will not be the same. There is nobody like this man, his genuiness and generosity will greatly be missed.
Tom McMahon
June 3, 2009
One of a kind...who will be missed!
Richard Pomahatch
June 3, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of John and hope his memory will aid in healing the pain of his loss.
Roshan Rajkumar
June 3, 2009
Judge Finley was a respected judge and great person. He will be missed, and my thoughts and prayers go with his family at this difficult time.
Tom Cameron
June 3, 2009
I met John at St. Luke's in 4th grade when I started there. John was the funniest kid I knew. We were not close, but I admired his humor and his intelligence. John made a great contribution to society.
Jerry Anderson
June 3, 2009
To the Finley Family,
I am very saddend by the loss of such a great man. I only knew him for a short period of time but his smile and wit was a an absolute joy.
That fella married me (I think reluctantly) and I am forever grateful.
That day was one of the best in my life and I sincerely appreciated John taking the time to perform the service and keep me and some of my companions in line.
I know we will miss him. My condolences to All of you.
Respectfully,
Jerry Anderson (Jerry and Liz of Breezy Pt.)
Jim and Maryam Shapland
June 3, 2009
We're so sorry to hear about John's passing. We will miss his warmth and kindness. Our condolences to Jackie and to the rest of the family. Please know that we are thinking of all of you during this difficult time. From Jim and Maryam Shapland
Karen Norgard
June 3, 2009
Dear Jackie and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. My Father Hal was great friends with John & you he always had stories to tell me about I always would laugh about them. He also helped with tough times as well. Please take care. Karen Norgard
Len Olson
June 3, 2009
So sorry to learn of John's passing. I first got acquainted with John when he was a Ramsey Co. Commissioner and I worked for the Ramsey Co. Dept. of Taxation. He had a great career and will be sorely missed. I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife, children and all the family. May God's peace be your's during this difficult time.
Patrick Laney and Rachel Rolland
June 3, 2009
We wanted to say how sorry we are to hear the sad news. I'll always remember John's warm smile and he will be missed. Our condolences go out to the Finley family. You have been in our thoughts.
Wendy Slanina
June 3, 2009
Jackie, John, Michele, Bridget,
We were so sorry to hear of John's passing. If there is anything you need all you have to do is ask. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. He will be missed!
Wendy, Justin and Dylan Slanina and Ginny and Tom Suerth
Rayann Dennis
June 3, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to all who feel the loss of Judge John Finley. He was always so warm and friendly to us. He will be greatly missed.
Rayann and Rick Dennis
Colleen Perfect
June 3, 2009
Dear Jackie and family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved husband, father and grandfather, John. He was a very special person to many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May his soul rest in God's peace.
Colleen & Tim Perfect
Amy Sweasy
June 3, 2009
Bridget and Family,
How sad to hear of your Dad's passing. I hope all of your good memories of him and the thoughts and prayers of others are of some comfort to you, your Mom, and your family at this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely,
Roxanne Bacigalupo
June 3, 2009
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Finley family. I knew John for over 30 years, worked for him in the 70s and went to his retirment party recently. He was a wonderful man and will be missed.
Connie Kaz-Johnson
June 3, 2009
Condolences to your family. I met John and family in Breezy Point about 25 years ago, they are all wonderful people. My heart goes out to all of you.
Tara R
June 3, 2009
Jackie, Annette & Family,
Our deepest condolences to you. John was a true Irishman, a great storyteller and each time I talked to him I had a good laugh. I know he will truly be missed.
Jill McClellan Figgins
June 3, 2009
Jackie, Bridget, Johnny and Michele~
Wow, what a shocking loss! John T. was a wonderful man with a million dollar smile! I had the privledge of knowing him all of my life- from St. Andrews to the Court House.. I was Honored to be able to have him officiate my wedding in 1998 at Vannelli's on the Green. Without a doubt He was great Irish touch! Every so often I would across paths with him Downtown ~ he always had a smile and a quick update on the family...
John will be missed by many! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
LtCol. George P. Sweeney III, USMC (Ret.)
June 3, 2009
The Sweeney family extends their prayers and condolences to all the Finley family at this time. John epitomized what it means to be a "Cretin Man."
Al Moosbrugger
June 3, 2009
Jackie & Family,
I am sorry for your loss. John did good things for many people & will be missed.
Darryl and Mary Morgan
June 3, 2009
We were shocked to hear of Judge Finley's death. He was a great judge and a great guy. I had the pleasure of knowing him while working in Ramsey County and also on a social level when we moved up to Breezy Point and would frequently run into the Judge. He was always smiling and happy and just great to be around. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family. God's Peace to all of you as you go through this sad time.
Rog Vannelli
June 3, 2009
Johnny...As the sadness is truly overwhelming, may you and your family find peace in all the wonderful memories of your dad that will last a lifetime. To know your dad ("Mr.Finley/Mr.Fin/The Judge/J.T./Sr./Big John") for over 30yrs was truly an honor. The smile, the unfogettable chuckle, the years of golf trips, countless nights of stories and laughter will never be forgotten.
Johnny- "St.Paul..."
Edward & Loni Essling
June 2, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the Finley Family. Ed will always have the memories of the great times they had fishing up in canada. It was a great honor having John marry us in 2002. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Mary Kay Straka
June 2, 2009
Judge Finley will be truly missed in Ramsey County especially in the Maplewood Court where he was scheduled to work today with us. One of our favorite Judges whom we had a moment of silence in memory of him in court today. My thoughts and prayers are with the Finley family.
Mary Kay
James Leviton
June 2, 2009
Judge Finley was a good man and a good judge. He will be missed.
Anonymous
June 2, 2009
Thanks to the former president of the Minnesota Fighting Saints, from a diehard fan.
Wedding 6/02/07
June 2, 2009
Suzie Montpetit
June 2, 2009
Dear Finley Family: You are all in my thoughts and prayers. He was definitely my most favorite judge to work for in Ramsey County. He was my oldest brother's probation officer in the 70s and from that time on had always remained a very close friend of my family. I told one of my colleagues here at the courthouse that he may not have been as naughty as my own father, but reminded me very much of him. I will miss him greatly! God bless you all. Suzie M
Sandi Erickson
June 2, 2009
My deepest sympathy to John's family. Wow, it seems like I just attended his retirement reception at Mancini's. What a sad day for all. I knew John for over 35 years and he was a wonderful person and very dedicated to his family.
Gail Blaisdell
June 2, 2009
Dear Jackie, Bridget, John, Michele, and families,
All of us who knew John are shocked and very sadenned to hear of his untimely passing. He was truly a good man, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, a great friend, a good listener and very fair. He certainly knew how to have fun, too -- those Irish eyes were always smiling!
Even during this most difficult time, I hope you can find comfort knowing that John is with our Father in Heaven now; by far his greatest accomplishment, and the reward we all hope for when our time here is finished!
Please remember that you now have a very special angel watching over you all. God Bless You!
Mary Dupre
June 2, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Finley Family. Those of us that worked with Judge Finley at the Ramsey County Courthouse are deeply saddened and shocked. He was a great guy that treated everyone with respect. He WILL be greatly missed.
Tony Turk
June 2, 2009
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to my dear friend Bridget, her mother Jackie and her siblings John, Michele and the rest of their families. To those in his community whom John served he was respected and was a role model. To those who had the privilege of calling him a friend, he was loved and adored. A man of such accomplishment and character is rare. John Finley will be remembered as such a man. John really came through for me at various tough times in my life and I have never nor will ever forget his kindness and compassion. Rest in peace and know that you hold a special place in my heart!
Sandra DeLaForest
June 2, 2009
Dear Finley Family, Please accept my most sincer condolences. John was such a wonderful man. Working with him was a treat! I will miss him. John loved all of you so much and was so proud of you. This is a very sad time for everyone who ever knew him.
Michelle Stoehr
June 2, 2009
My condolences to the Finley Family, My Mother Mickey and Brother Sean new John very well and I remember John from the Breezy Point Area. Words can not describe how much John will be missed and never forgotten. From our family to your family, God Bless You.
The Stoehr Family
June 2, 2009
Our deepest sympathys in the loss of Mr. Finley. We shared office space with him many years ago and were very honored to do secretarial work for him..Just a genuine, nice man. Staff of Answer Personnel Services
Tom Barrett
June 2, 2009
We lost a great Irishman today...
Mark Miazga
June 2, 2009
My condolences to Judge Finley's family. I was his law clerk for two years. He was a wonderful judge to work for. He was always personable, interested in your life and family, and a great person to learn from. I was always impressed with his thoughtful deliberations on each and every case he tried and in particular his taking time to pray when it came time for particularly difficult sentencing decisions. God Bless you all.
Bobby Cotie
June 2, 2009
John played a tremendous role in establishing THE FIRST TEE PROGRAM OF ST PAUL, thank you John. because of your time and effort many kids for years to come will benifit. I will miss you.
June 2, 2009
My condolences to John's family. He was a terrific colleague, with whom I served on several committees throught the Minnesota District Judges Association. I picture him always with a friendly smile and a greeting. And in the right season, he always had a tee time coming up.
Judge Don Venne
Tenth Judicial District, Anoka
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