John Haessig obituary

John Raymond Haessig, a devoted spouse, father, grandfather, great grandfather, proud veteran, and dedicated community member, passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 81.
John was born on December 16, 1943, in Rockford, Ill. to Guy and Violette Haessig. In 1962, he joined the U.S. Army, serving with distinction. During his military service, he had the unique opportunity to work as a truck driver for actor Steve McQueen during the filming of Soldier in the Rain, and later served as a driver for the U.S. Surgeon General while stationed at Fort Ord.
In 1967, he married Diane (Dee) Burt, and they were blessed with two children: a son, Mike, and a daughter, Renee.
In 1972, the family relocated to Brainerd, Minnesota, where John became the manager of the Community Credit Union. Known for his integrity and leadership, he made a lasting impact on many through his work. In 1980, he moved to Staples, Minnesota, to continue as manager of the Staples Community Credit Union. Eight years later, he returned to Brainerd and began a successful career as an insurance agent and registered representative, continuing to serve others with care and honesty.
Following Diane’s passing in 1996, John moved to Stevens Point, Wisconsin, where he found companionship and love again, marrying Sally Callahan. They loved to spend time with family and friends, travel, and play bridge. One of John’s proudest bridge achievements was earning Bronze Life Master.
Outside of work and family, John was an avid fisherman. He often spent his evenings on the water, honing his skills and preparing for the next tournament with the local Bassmasters club, proudly earning the nickname “Big Bass.”
John will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unwavering work ethic, and the kindness he extended to everyone he met. His legacy is one of love, service, and community spirit.
He is survived by his wife, Sally; children, Lori Erickson (Jim), Mike Haessig (Brenda), and Renee Marcus (Seth); stepchildren Leslie Malotky and Brenda Haessig; grandchildren, Camen, Ryan, Colton, Jacob, Samantha, Danielle, and Tyler; several great-grandchildren; sisters Carole Mutzebaugh and Judy Platte, and special friends, Pete and Jean Schaff.
He was predeceased by his wife, Diane, parents Guy and Violette, and stepfather James Huettl.
A celebration of John’s life will take place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at the Sky Club in Plover. The gathering will begin at 12:30 p.m. with a meal to be served at 1 p.m.
We would like to thank the staff at Edenbrook in Wisconsin Rapids, Whispering Pines in Plover, and St. Croix Hospice, who made John’s final days as comfortable as possible.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wisconsin Parkinson’s Association, St. Croix Hospice, or the organization of your choice.
Shuda Funeral Chapel - Stevens Point is honored to assist the family with arrangements.