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William Rancourt Obituary
1944 - 2026
William "JR" Rancourt, 81, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones at the home he built in Grand Rapids, MN.
William was born in 1944 in Grand Rapids, MN to Henry and Alice Rancourt (George "Buster" Claybough). William was widely known across the community by his various names including Jun-Jun, Bill, and Willy. William was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to JoAnn "Dolly" Rancourt for 58 years. William was often described as a hard-working, honest, humble, dependable man, who was stubborn and always on the move. His favorite times were spent at garage sales, cutting firewood, doing various outdoor activities, spending time with grandchildren, and his involvement with the Itasca Driftskippers Snowmobile Club and the Rapids Riders ATV Club. William and JoAnn are founding members of the Itasca Driftskippers and have been devoted members ever since.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Alice Rancourt (George Claybough); and his loving wife, JoAnn "Dolly" Rancourt.
William is survived by his three daughters Cathy, Nancy (Joe), and Vickie (Dickie); his grandchildren Gary (Amanda), Nick (Nikki), Hunter, Michaela, Brock, and bonus grandchildren Nathan, Matthew, Mitchell, and Ava; his great-grandchildren, Isaak, Landon, Charity, Buckley, and Logan; his siblings, Patricia and Robin (Randy).
The family held a memorial for JR and JoAnn on Friday, February 13, 2026 with visitation at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grand Rapids, MN and a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at the church. Fr. Blake Rozier officiated. Burial will be held at a later date at Wildwood Cemetery, Cohasset, MN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to either Itasca Driftskippers or the Parkinson's Association.
Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
Memories and Condolences
for William Rancourt
1 Entry
Marian and Dale Barcus
February 15, 2026
Vickie, Nancy, and Cathy,
Please know that we are thinking of you and share your grief. Losing both parents within days of each other is overwhelming. There is so much to do, but take time to care for yourselves and cherish good memories.
JoAnn shared so much love in her baking and generosity. She was a very good friend to my sister Bev, and was always deeply concerned and dedicated to her. She worked hard and loved deeply.
JR was a unique charming character, with a wicked sense of humor who lived every moment of his life to its fullest. I remember his playfulness when dressed up for Halloween, and his shrewd business sense when he bargained the price down on one of our garage sale items, and then opened his wallet to display numerous $100 bills bulging out!
Good memories that we will cherish. Remember our spirits are with you, Marian and Dale Barcus
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Rowe Funeral Home and Crematory - Grand Rapids510 NW First Avenue, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
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