John Francis DeMars, Deerwood, 81

July 14, 1933 - July 30, 2014

John Francis DeMars, age 81, of Deerwood, MN (formerly of Foreston), passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 30, 2014 at his home, surrounded by his family. John was born July 14, 1933 in Rogers, MN to Thomas and Stella (Ebner) DeMars, the youngest of seven children. He married Crystal in Sacrament, CA on November 21, 1956. They spent 58 beautiful years together raising nine children. John was a proud and humble man. He farmed while working for the State Highway Department for 27 years. He enjoyed many years of retirement and was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying his connection with nature in both hunting and fishing. He loved to read and enjoyed taxidermy. He loved time spent with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Crystal; children, Diana (Gregg) Johnson, Tom (Kathy), Tim (Carol), Carrie, LuAnne (Ron) Weyer, Joel (Brenda), James (Dawn), Rita (Kyle) Hastings, and Kevin (Connie); twenty-nine grandchildren who admired him dearly and fourteen great-grandchildren; and one sister, Margaret Barthel. A private celebration of his life will be held Sunday, August 3, 2014 from 1-5 PM at 13563 100th Avenue - Milaca, MN. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter, MN.