John Daniel Dietzen
John Dietzen, age 40, died unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep on April 29, 2021. Born in 1980 in Minneapolis, John attended Annunciation Catholic School and graduated from St. Thomas Academy in 1998. He enjoyed his time at Marquette University, graduating with a B.A. in Psychology and Family Studies in 2003. He earned his master's degree in Social Work from St. Catherine's in 2010.
John's passion in life was helping kids. He spent over 11 years as a social worker, with the last 8 years at Venture Academy in Minneapolis. John's ability to relate to kids allowed him to gain trust and provide needed support in a safe and caring environment. John was so proud of his students and the obstacles they overcame.
When not working with kids, John enjoyed playing frisbee golf, not opening mail, caring for his dogs, supporting Chelsea F.C. and giving bear hugs. He always had a new playlist with music no one had ever heard of. John preferred the kids' table at Christmas dinner. He was proud of his fluency in Spanish and enjoyed reminiscing about his time in Spain and Costa Rica.
John leaves behind his parents, Christopher and Peggy Dietzen; his sisters, Stacey Steel (Brian) and Lisa Eastlack (Steve); his brother, Mark (Kristina), as well as his nieces and nephews Haley, Anna, Adam, Elizabeth, Ben, Andy, Clare, Tim, Will and John. In addition, John leaves behind his many loyal friends as well as his beloved French Bulldogs, Franklin and Marlo, both of whom have never missed a meal.
As John would prefer, a not so stuffy Mass of Christian Burial will be held on the front lawn of Incarnation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on Friday, May 7th at 1:00 p.m. immediately followed by Celebration of Life program (beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the same location).
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