John James Zahratka Jr.

John J. Zahratka Jr., age 69, of Annandale, MN, passed away on February 13, 2025, at his home in Annandale, MN. He was born in Faribault, MN, on May 27, 1955, to John J. Sr. and Mary Zahratka. John's years growing up were in Kilkenny and then on the family hobby farm in South Haven, MN. He attended South Haven Elementary School and then Annandale High School. John was known to many as

“Little John” and then “Zeke”.

John was a veteran of the US Army serving his country beginning in 1973 and then in standby reserves from 1977-1978. He earned his GED while in the service. John was a wheel vehicle mechanic and received the National Defense Service Medal.

John held different jobs but mainly worked for the Soo Line Railroad for many years. He enjoyed trapping and hunting in his early years along with fishing and more fishing which was usually when he smiled the most or the only time he would freely let us take his picture. He was an avid reader of Westerns, playing marble board games, cribbage, and other card games, fixing and putzing on things, collecting and bringing home stuff (and more stuff) to work on. John always had a joke to share. He was a "biker dude" for a while also and his Triumph was quite loud.

John was a “dog” man, enjoying them in his lifetime leaving behind his “Special Buddy”, Louie, who will miss him immensely.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary. He is survived by his sisters, Mary Jane (Myron), Mary Lou (Al), Mary Rose, Mary Ann (John), Mary Ellen; seven nieces and nephews; 10 great- nieces and nephews; aunts, cousins; his friends and neighbors; as well as his special friend, Jacquie, and her brother, Michael.

Interment is being planned for Camp Ripley or Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Please check back for updates.