Johnathan Earl

1939 - 2025

Johnathan Earl

December 21, 1939 - November 18, 2025

BARABOO - Johnathan Otto "John" Earl, age 85, of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at SSM Health St. Clare Hospital with family by his side.

Johnathan, son of Fern and Alma (West) Earl, was born in Wayne, OH, on December 21, 1939. He attended St. Stephen's Lutheran school in Adrian, MI, and graduated from Michigan Lutheran Seminary in Saginaw, MI. John furthered his studies by obtaining a bachelor's degree in education from Dr. Martin Lutheran College in New Ulm, MN. John was a dedicated educator his entire career; he taught at St. John's Lutheran School in Baraboo, Centennial Lutheran and Risen Christ, both in Milwaukee, as well as Salem Lutheran in Owosso, MI.

As a Principle, Teacher and Coach, he poured his whole heart into every lesson in the classroom, on the court or on the field. He met each day with enthusiasm that lifted his students and colleagues alike. Many students, his son and daughter included, loudly and proudly say that he was one of the best and their favorite Teacher and Coach. John was always there with a prayer, listening ear, ready guidance, and a warm smile. He led with Christian strength, empathy, and such understanding that it created a place where every student felt seen, supported and inspired.

On June 8, 1963, he was united in marriage to Barbara Jean Egerer at St. John's Lutheran Church in Baraboo. He was above all, a family man. His love for his wife, Barb, and his children ran deep, steady and unwavering. That love only grew with the arrival of his grandchildren. Each one holds a special place in his heart. He leaves behind memories touched with love, growth, quiet truths and a lot of laughter.

John was proud to have served on the Board of Control at Wisconsin Lutheran High School in Milwaukee, worked on the Sauk County Board of Supervisors, and he was President of the Central Wisconsin Community Action Council for 25 years, the council helped to lift people out of poverty into a better quality of life. When not working, volunteering his time, gardening, watching the Green Bay Packers or Wisconsin Badgers, John was seen sitting on the porch talking to neighbors enjoying the midwest summer weather.

He quietly and humbly supported so many organizations such as: Operation Smile, Smile Train for Cleft Lip and Palate Children, Heritage Foundation, Alliance Defending Freedom, CareNet Ministry, St. Labre Indian School Foundation, St. Judes and ASPSA just to name a few.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barb of Baraboo; children, Steven (Jennifer) Earl of Baraboo, and Deborah of La Crescent, MN; five grandchildren, Taylor (Erik) Hebble, Brandon Steele, Elliana Schoeller, Tyler Earl, and Piper Earl; one great-granddaughter, Callie Anderson; as well as his sister, Linda K. (Howard) Hunt of Fairfield, Iowa; sister-in-law, Janyce of Gainesville, GA; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William J. Earl and nephew, Scott Earl.

Funeral services for John will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Baraboo with Pastor Tim Kuske officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home and at the church on Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to the time of the service. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church or School in John's name.