John Gregory Hexum

John Gregory Hexum, of Saginaw, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on May 9, 1947, John was a proud lifelong Minnesotan who embodied the values of hard work, humility, and quiet strength. He graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1965, then earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics education from the University of Minnesota Duluth. He went on to teach math for 35 years-most of that time at Duluth Central, his alma mater. Known for his calm demeanor, dry wit, and deep commitment to learning, John left a lasting impression on those who spent time with him.

John was a series of intriguing contradictions. He taught both advanced Calculus and "Motor Math" - a class he created for his fellow garage junkie students. He could rebuild an engine from the ground up, yet also had a deep love for language, often completing the New York Times crossword puzzle with ease. He played the viola in orchestra but smoked a corn cob pipe. He carried the grit and toughness of his Central Hillside upbringing but was also a deeply empathetic man who loved animals and children. Over more than 30 years, he cherished annual fishing trips to Canada with lifelong friends, a testament to his loyalty.

He found great joy at the hunting shack on Fox Farm Road, where time slowed and laughter and Miller Lite or Grain Belt Premium flowed. His garage was a second home-and the site of thousands of hours spent restoring and fine-tuning classic cars and hot rods, a passion that brought him both pride and lasting friendships. When not in his garage, you could find him in friends' shops where he attended countless meetups with his fellow Car Guys.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Louise and Alvin Hexum; his brother, Thomas Hexum; and his long-term partner and special friend, Lynn Koski.

He is survived by his children, Amy Hexum (Brennan Mears) and Greg (Gretchen) Hexum; his beloved grandchildren, Ingrid and Harper; and his former spouse, Sharon Hexum-Platzer. He is also survived by Lynn's sons, Mike (Erica) Koski and Matt (Angie) Koski, whom he cared for deeply.

John is further survived by his faithful, furry, canine companion, Foxy, who now resides in the loving care of Sharon.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Barnes Care in Esko and St. Croix Hospice for their professionalism, unwavering kindness, and support in John's final months of life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's name may be made to Animal Allies Humane Society of Duluth (4006 Airport Road, Duluth, MN 55811), honoring John's love for animals and his special bond with Foxy.

Though he is no longer with us, John's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lifelong friends he made, and the quiet strength he modeled every day. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at later date.