John Eli Jasken

John Eli Jasken, 35, of West Fargo, ND, departed this life on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

Born in Fargo on December 6, 1989, to Steven and Lori (Weis) Jasken, John graduated from West Fargo High School in 2008. He was a multi-talented student who excelled academically and participated in violin, baseball, football, and wrestling – his dedication to the wrestling team led him to State Championships.

Following his time at NDSU and Moorhead Technical College, John answered the call to serve his nation, proudly following in the footsteps of his grandfathers, father, and brother. A third-generation Navy serviceman, he honorably earned Master-at-Arms – Sharpshooter while stationed at Kings Bay Base in Georgia. After his honorable discharge, John returned to West Fargo, driven by a desire to be near his mother after the loss of his father, and ready to rebuild his life amidst the comfort of home.

John found his purpose in working with youth at the Boys and Girls Club in Fargo, a role he dedicated himself to until his passing. He possessed an extraordinary ability to connect with children, offering mentorship and kindness that profoundly shaped their lives. Yet it was within the embrace of his own family, that John's spirit truly shone. He shared an incredibly close and special bond with his niece, Aria, and nephew, Gavin, delighting in their presence. Family gatherings were sacred to John – moments he cherished deeply – and his heart held a special place for dog-sitting his sister's dogs, Hank and Bella.

A true gamesman, John found joy in online gaming with friends, but his fondest memories were often forged around a table with loved ones, immersed in The Game of Life, Pirate's Dice, and Tripoley. No place, however, held more significance for John than the family cabin at Leaf Lake. This beloved retreat was more than just a destination – it was his sanctuary, a source of profound peace and immeasurable joy. Whether casting a line into the lake, sharing stories by the campfire's glow, or simply relaxing with a good movie, John found his true self. It was, undeniably, his second home. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, genuine connection, and boundless humor. Forever remembered for his quick wit and contagious laugh, John brought a significant kind of joy and ease to everyone he met.

John's compassionate spirit extended even beyond his life. Through his selfless decision to be an organ and tissue donor, he has already touched over a hundred lives – providing vital organs and healing tissues that have offered a miraculous gift of health and hope to so many. A testament to his boundless generosity, this final act was a powerful extension of his caring spirit and a way for his legacy to live on.

He is survived by his mother, Lori Jasken – West Fargo; brother, Jesse (Kimberly) Jasken – Buckeye, AZ; sister, Angela (Michael) Trupka – Fargo; nieces and nephews, Gunner, Aylea and Avery Jasken, and Aria and Gavin Trupka.

He was preceded in death by his father, Steven Jasken; grandparents John and Gertrude Jasken; grandparents Anthony and Barbara Weis; and nephew Cullan Jasken.

Visitation: Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 5 to 7 PM with a prayer service at 7 PM at West Funeral Home, West Fargo.

Funeral Mass: Thursday, July 31 at 2 PM at Holy Cross Catholic Church, West Fargo with visitation one hour prior.

Burial: Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery, Detroit Lakes.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com