Coon Rapids - Slaughter, John Merrill age 95, of Coon Rapids. Died Sunday, July 27th. Preceded in death by wife, Joyce; parents, John Sr. and Emma; brother, Roger; and many beloved relatives. Survived by daughter Kim (Ron) Roth; son, Jeff; grandson, Ryan Roth; granddaughter, Jennifer Roth; brother, Tom (Ione) Slaughter; sisters-in-law, Vera Slaughter, June Velie, and Virginia Velie; and many nieces and nephews. John graduated from East High in Waterloo, Iowa in 1948. While attending high school, he worked at the Waterloo Courier newspaper. After graduation, John attended Prairie Bible Institute in Three Hills, Alberta. After moving to Minneapolis, he continued his newspaper career at the Minneapolis Star Tribune until he retired in 1992. He enjoyed his time at the Star, made lifelong friends, and was given the nickname "Smiling Johnny." John was an active member of First Baptist Church of Coon Rapids, and started attending there shortly after it was founded. He held many positions in the church including Sunday school teacher, youth ministries leader, deacon, and chairman. John enjoyed yard work and his lawn was the envy of the neighborhood. He often rode his bike through the neighborhood, stopping to chat with friends along the way. John's greatest joy was spending time with his family, including trips to the farm, summer vacations up north, and grilling steaks year-round, regardless of the weather! John was a faithful servant of the Lord, and devoted follower of Christ. His faith in God guided his life and he was an example to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. Private burial at Morningside Memorial Gardens in Coon Rapids. GEARHART 763-755-6300 www.gearhartfuneralhome.com