John Robert Weiss Sr.

John Robert Weiss Sr., 86, of St. Paul, MN, passed away on June 30, 2025, in his Duluth home, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born on December 15, 1938, to Andrew and Mary Weiss in St. Paul, MN. John joined the Navy in 1957, where he was assigned to the USS Cooke, APD-130, and ironically, he served as a Cook. He received various military awards and other recognitions throughout his life.
He married Betty Johnson of Duluth, MN, in 1960, and together they had five children: John, Maria, Diane, David, and Cheryl.
John was a dedicated member of the Teamsters Local 554. He worked as a truck driver for over 30 years, making deliveries to Holiday Station Stores across Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin. He retired from World Wide Company in 2000. He would then meet Jimmy Hoffa at a work party and took pride in joking about being taller than him. In retirement, John enjoyed spending his winters in Arizona, playing unlimited rounds of golf, and often calling his children and friends to brag about how hot it was down there.
He enjoyed cooking and creating fantastic meals, with his spaghetti being a favorite among those who had tasted it. Throughout his life, he took pleasure in bowling and golfing. He was particularly proud of playing softball with all his kids, earning the team the nickname "The Family Team." In his younger days, he was a member of both a swimming team and a gymnastics team. During his free time, he enjoyed reading "Dear Abby" and working in the garage. He also loved spending time outdoors, especially doing yard work. John was a caring and generous man; his children and grandchildren were the world to him. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and share his wise insights with those who were closest to him.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Mary Weiss, sisters Marge Novak and Gloria Radke, and daughter Cheryl Weiss.
John is survived by his two sons, John Weiss Jr. and David Weiss, and his two daughters, Maria Erickson and Diane Weiss (Cliff). He also leaves behind his grandchildren: John Foley, Alex Eskola, Cherii Alexsevich, Andrew Buerke, and Jenna Weiss, as well as his great-grandchildren: Aliyah Smart, Xander Foley, Emerson Foley, and Zara Foley. He is also survived by his nieces: Robyn Forys,(Doug) Dawn Hager (Tom), and Tami Cherioli (Jim), as well as his special friend, Betty Miller, and other relatives.
Above all, John, a man of strong values, his family meant the world to him. His willingness to always lend a helping hand, his generosity, his wise insights, and his stubbornness will be greatly missed by all who knew him. While his presence may no longer be with us, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his life.
A celebration of life will be held on July 19th at 3:00 PM in the North Room at the Alpine Bar, located at 1308 Commonwealth Ave, Duluth, MN. Military honors will take place at 4:00 PM.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Joseph Zabaraki for his excellent care, as well as Lindsey and the Essentia Health Hospice Team. Your care, compassion, and commitment have exceeded expectations. You are all truly amazing at what you do!