John Herman Holker passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on December 23, 2025, at Cokato Manor. He was born March 17, 1948 in Monticello, Minnesota, to Leo and Helen Holker.
John grew up on a farm in Monticello and graduated from Monticello High School in 1966. On March 27, 1989, he married the love of his life, Jayne Morris, and together they built a life filled with family, laughter, and shared passions.
John spent more than twenty-five years of his career at Hogland Bus and Truck Company and retired in 2013. He grew up as a member of St. Henry’s Catholic Church. John enjoyed many hobbies, including amateur radio and gardening. He was a proud member of John Deere 2 Cylinder Club as well as the Knights of Columbus in Monticello, Minnesota. Known for his sense of humor, John loved telling jokes and visiting with people. He had a special gift for storytelling that kept friends and family entertained.
One of John’s greatest joys was following his grandsons through their sporting events, from elementary school through college. He was their biggest fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Helen Holker, and sister, Kathy Schlief.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jayne Holker; his step-children Laura (Dan) Robbins, and Aaron (Cindy) Kotila; six grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Fran Dolly and brother Mike Holker, along with many nieces and nephews. Urn bearers are niece Tonya Dolly and oldest grandson Brandon Bromstad.
Services Pending. Arrangements by Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cokato & Howard Lake, Minnesota 320-286-2534, www.swansonpeterson.com
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