John Richard Jarnis

John (Jack) R. Jarnis passed away in Duluth, Minnesota on Friday, October 18, 2024, after a long struggle with MDS. He is predeceased by his father, John G. Jarnis. He is survived by his wife, Jane Jarnis; his mother, Nancy Jarnis; his siblings, George, Robert, Martha, and Daniel Jarnis and Janet Malley; his 15 nieces and nephews and his 19 great nieces and nephews. 

John was born and raised in Massachusetts, and it is where he met Jane. He attended the Massachusetts state system of higher education and earned an advanced degree in early childhood education. Jack taught music in the Wilton, CT school system for several years before he and Jane moved to Minnesota where he earned an advanced degree in education administration. He was a former principal at Four Corners Elementary School in Superior, WI. Jack also worked as a music director at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Duluth, MN. 

In his youth John was an active Boy Scout, an experience that nourished his lifelong love of camping and nature. In later life that love extended to sailing on Lake Superior with Jane and their dogs, Nick and Nora. Good food was a passion and he delighted in cooking for others. John was a serious and accomplished musician and especially enjoyed playing the organ and his guitars—for himself and for others—as well as singing in his church choir. At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, he was a faithful member of the tenor section, and he frequently directed the Chancel Choir, Handbell Choir and Children’s Choir. He played guitar for many special church events, and he was instrumental in leading the congregation to envision its future during a time of transition. 

John was kind and generous. He loved his wife Jane, his extended family, and his faith community. John loved life. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 11:00 am with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1710 E Superior St, Duluth, MN 55812. Visit St. Paul’s YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@StPaulsEpiscopalChurchDuluth to view the livestream. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the charity of your choice, or to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.