John Richter, 77

John Richter, age 77, of Milaca, passed away on May 24, 2025, after a lengthy illness.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Milaca with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.  Arrangements are with Peterson-Johnson Funeral Home - Milaca, MN.

John was born on June 13, 1947, in New Prague, MN, to Ted and Viola (Wondra) Richter.  He attended Montgomery Public School, graduating in 1966.  He earned an accounting degree from Mankato Commercial College and also a teaching degree from Mankato State University.  John met lifelong friend, Paul Berg, while working at Green Giant in Montgomery.  Together with three friends, they started a rock band called the Uniques that performed until the members headed off to college.

John met his wife, Barb (Chlan), while attending college and the two married on September 12, 1970.  The family lived in Montgomery, MN, Big Lake, MN, Clear Lake, MN and finally, Milaca, MN.  During this time the family grew by adding two sons, Christopher and Ryan.

John taught junior high Earth Science and Geography for 3 ½ years at Big Lake High School.  He also worked in construction before accepting a position as a Tax Examiner for the Department of Revenue where he worked for 21 years.  While working in Saint Paul, John met Dave Kauppi and the two became good friends. John and Dave, along with their wives, attended many events and traveled on many vacations together.

John was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Milaca and he was strong in his faith.  He loved hunting, fishing, golf and music, especially Elvis Presley.

John is survived by his wife, Barb of Milaca;  sons, Christopher of Milaca and Ryan (Leah) of Redondo Beach, CA;  much-loved granddaughter, Maris, and numerous relatives and friends, including Paul.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Vi;  father- and mother-in-law, Milton and Rose Chlan;  brother, Jerry and other relatives.