New Brighton - John N. Sufka, 83, of New Brighton, MN, passed away on October 18, 2025, surrounded by family after a short battle with pneumonia.

John was born on April 2, 1942, to John F. Sufka and Irene C. Sufka in Anoka, MN, the oldest of 6 children. John grew up in Columbia Heights, MN, graduating from Columbia Heights High School in 1960. During this time he made life-long friends and was somewhat of a rebel. In his senior year of high school, he met the girl of his dreams, Sharon Strande. Their first date was actually on a bet that she wouldn't say yes! But she did, and the rest is history!

John joined the US Navy in 1961, stationing in California at the Naval Air Weapons Station in China Lake as a Radioman. In 1962, he and Sharon were married in Columbia Heights while John was on leave. They had their first of three children during his 4 years in service, son John. Their daughter, Deborah, and son, Joel, were born after returning to Minnesota.

In 1967, John joined Control Data Corporation as a technician, and they bought their first house in Coon Rapids, where they resided until 1987 when they built their home in New Brighton. During his 27 years at Control Data, he worked his way up to Program Manager and was in this position for about 15 years, retiring shortly after Sharon's death in 1994.

John was hardworking, straightforward, tough, and at times, blunt; but he had a warm heart and enjoyed others and life.

Throughout his life, John enjoyed grouse and pheasant hunting and fishing with friends and his sons. He and Sharon enjoyed camping with their kids, family, and friends, either in a tent, camper, or a cabin on a lake. In his later years, he especially enjoyed fishing on Lake of the Woods with his cousins Andy and Deb and friends. He played Yahtzee regularly with his sister, Rosemary, and brother-in-law, Steve. A visit to John's always meant several games of cribbage! John took great pride in his yard and loved to lend a hand to neighbors in need. He loved his neighbors and neighborhood and his family is extremely grateful for their compassion and willingness to help him whenever needed. Family and friends will remember John for his wonderful, albeit very dry, sense of humor! He was loved and will be greatly missed.

John is survived by his children and their families: John F. (Michele) Sufka, Deborah (Rick) Schuneman, Joel (Carla) Sufka; brother Bill (Grace) Sufka, and sister Rosemary (Steve) Comstock; nine grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife Sharon, brother Ed, sisters MaryAnn and Irene, and granddaughter, Anna Sufka.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 2 pm to 6 pm at The Eagles Club located at 563 Old Hwy 8 NW, New Brighton, MN 55112.