John Paul Metzen

John Paul Metzen, born on May 5, 1968, in St. Paul, MN, passed away on June 16, 2025, in Star Prairie, WI. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, papa and friend, known for his joyful spirit and warm presence.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Rachel Metzen; mother, Linda Metzen; son, Nicholas Presley; daughter, Allie Jones; granddaughter, Emma Presley-Mayhew, whom brought immense joy into his life, often sharing playful moments filled with laughter and their favorite poop jokes. He is also survived by his brother, Jeff Metzen and nephew, Jordy Metzen. John was preceded in death by his father, Senator James Metzen.

A proud graduate of South St. Paul High School, Class of '86, John continued his education at Augsburg College and then at Inver Hills Community College, where he honed his skills for his future career. He later obtained his Automation and ElectroMech Certification from WITC New Richmond, which paved the way for his successful tenure at Syntegon Packaging Technologies, where he worked his way up to the position of Assembly Team Lead. John's colleagues often referred to him as the heart of the assembly floor, a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his work.

John's happy place was undoubtedly the Cabin at Big Sandy Lake, where he loved to pontoon around and immerse himself in the beauty of nature. He enjoyed spending time at local taverns playing pull-tabs and proudly embraced his role as a Viking cheerfully cheering on Minnesota sports teams while living in Cheesehead territory. Golfing was another favorite pastime, along with "begrudgingly" tending to the garden alongside Rachel, which he secretly cherished. John also took great pleasure in puttering around his property on his new golf cart, often accompanied by his two beloved dogs, Melvin and Milo.

Travel was another passion of John's; he cherished trips to the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas and enjoyed the sun-soaked beaches of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL. His friendship with his "wing man," Danny Boesen, was a precious connection in his life, one marked by shared adventures and deep camaraderie.

John's legacy is one filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 11:00 am at Grace Lutheran Church, 149 8th Ave S, South Saint Paul, MN 55075 with visitation from 10:00-11:00 am prior to the service at the church. A luncheon will follow the service at the Croatian Hall, 445 2nd Ave S, South Saint Paul, MN 55075. A private family burial will take place at General Lutheran Cemetery, South St. Paul, on a later date. Memorials preferred to South St. Paul Educational Foundation.