John D. D. Haugen

John D. Haugen age 78, of Rome, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on August 9, 2025. A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 10:30am at Woodland Lutheran Church in the Town of Rome. Visitation will start at 9:00am.

John was born on June 24, 1947, in Ashland, WI. He was a 1965 graduate of Washburn High School. From 1965 – 1968 he served in the United States Army as an Expert Marksman in the 9th Infantry and played tuba in the 5th Army Band.

He was married to Merrilynne Hanson in 1966 and they have two daughters, Stephanie (Joe, Haley, Sydney and Emma) and Adrianna (Aaron), who has two sons; Isaac and Elias.

John lived in Germany and taught for the Department of Defense for 5 years. He earned multiple degrees, including his EdS (Educational Specialist) degree in Administration and served Wisconsin school districts of Mellen, Clayton, Cadott, Montello, Elcho and Tomorrow River in Amherst. He cherished the opportunity to uplift people. In his 38 year career his leadership and passion for learning inspired countless students and staff.

John was deeply committed to community and was active in various clubs, committees and local government. He played and directed various church and community bands and choirs throughout his life and played several instruments. He loved nature and traveling and immersed himself in cultures and languages of the world.

John married Donna Lewis Sveum in 2000 and inherited two more children; Jeff (Lori), and Stacy (Kurt). He loved being "Grandpa John" to Jarett, Jackson, Brooke, Jeremy and great-grandpa to Bria, Makenna, Cynthia, and Kendil. He is survived by his brother, Mike (Susan) and preceded in death by his parents, John and Frieda (Nystrom) Haugen.

The family would like to thank all of John's wonderful friends for being his "army" in the battle against cancer. We are grateful to the Aspirus Cancer Center, Home Instead, Compassus Hospice and Town of Rome emergency responders, all of whom went above and beyond! Memorials will help establish a scholarship in John's name.

Ritchay Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.