John R. Diercks, 76, of Goodhue, passed away Monday, January 22, 2024. He was born February 19th, 1947, in Red Wing, to Albert and Esther (Vieths) Diercks, the fifth of six children. He was baptized and confirmed at rural Goodhue's St. John's Lutheran Church. There, he served as church treasurer and secretary as a faithful, lifelong member.
John graduated from Goodhue High School in 1965. He went on to further his education in Winona, becoming a machinist upon the completion of his certification. He began working at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, where he helped design and engineer the first prosthetic knee - something he was proud of. After nine years with Mayo, John left to farm full time. He also sold seed corn and was involved with the Goodhue Community in various organizations and committees, such as the Goodhue Lion's, Goodhue Jaycee's, and the Goodhue Township Board.
In his free time, John enjoyed fishing, boating, playing cards, tractor pulls, and going to the races at Deer Creek Speedway. As he got older you would oftentimes find him riding around on his side-by-side checking up on the animals and crops. He knew his way around the kitchen, and liked cooking or grilling for family and friends. Most of all, he loved having everyone over to visit. He was happiest at home when he had all the little great-nieces and great-nephews running about, creating chaos and fun.
He is survived by his siblings, Rita Jurgens of Chanhassen, Marcia Matthees of Cannon Falls and Gary (Phyllis) Diercks of Goodhue, as well as many nephews and nieces and great-nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, John and Katherine Diercks; maternal grandparents, William and Mary Vieths; his parents, Albert and Esther Diercks; sister, Rebecca Diercks; brother, Gail Diercks; nephews, Brent Diercks and Jonathan Matthees; sister-in-law, Janelle Diercks and brothers-in-law Ray Matthees and Marvin Jurgens.
Memorial service will be at 11:00a.m. on Friday, January 26th, 2024 at St. John's Lutheran Church, rural Goodhue, with Rev. Robb Robbert officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to donor's choice.
At John's request, a celebration of his life will be held at the Red Wing Elks Lodge on Monday, February 19th, 2024, from 3-6 p.m.
Arrangements handled by Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel.
