John Robert Mott

He was born in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. After high school, John served in the US Army (1965-1968) with a tour in Vietnam. After completion of his service, he obtained a bachelor's degree in Physical Education, from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh. John continued to work in this field until September of 1977, when he accepted his dream job as a State Trooper with the Minnesota State Patrol (MSP). “When you’re in a fix, call 176”. During his 25 years with the MSP, John had several specialties. His main passion was traffic speed, authoring the MSP Radar Manual. The first part of his career he worked the metro area, followed by the Faribault/Owatonna area. John ended his career with the MSP in the “Arrive Alive” program, helping youth make better decisions about drinking and driving. After retiring, John worked part-time for the State of Minnesota providing security for the legislature. John was able to pursue his love of travel during his employment with Semester at Sea. He was the conduct officer on long voyages or the pianist in the piano lounge for the shorter enrichment voyages.

In the summer of 1972, John taught swimming. One of his co-workers/friends would become his wife of 49 years. He married Missy in 1976. They raised three kids, Steph, Jill and JB. He lived in Apple Valley until moving to the Minnesota Veterans Home in 2022.

John was a man of many talents and interests. He tuned and repaired pianos, performed card tricks, loved most sports (GO PACK GO), cabin time, musky fishing, bare footing, and most of all spending time with his family.

John is survived by wife, Missy and his children, Steph, Jill and JB (Cassie). He has two granddaughters, Sophie and Piper, a sister Jennifer Decker (Bob), brothers-in-law, John Foss (Nanc), Rand Foss (Di), and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at the American Legion, 14521 Granada Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124

5:00 p.m. Welcome (including appetizers and beverages)

6:00 p.m. Celebration of Life

6:30 p.m. Story telling and open mic

A private inurnment at Fort Snelling and Barnes, WI will be held at a later time.

A heartfelt THANK YOU to the staff of the Minnesota Veterans Home in Minneapolis for the outstanding care they provided. Our family is truly grateful.