John Paul Hahn, age 85, of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, with his family by his side.

He was born on April 14, 1940, in Centuria, Wisconsin, to Mike and Letha Hahn. At the age of four, John and his brother Ronald Hahn were placed in a foster home with Robert and Amy Dickenson of Eureka, Wisconsin, who raised them as if they were their own children until graduation. It was there that John developed the values of responsibility, perseverance, and hard work that defined his life.

Following high school, John proudly served in the United States Army, spending a significant portion of his service stationed in Germany—an experience he spoke of with pride and the occasional well-timed story.

John was married to his beloved wife, Nancy Louise Hahn, for 52 years. Together they built a strong, faith-centered family rooted in love, commitment, and respect. He was a devoted father and grandfather who took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren the importance of hard work, honesty, and being good people—often by example, sometimes by lecture, and always with good intention.

John spent his working years in several trades, always known for his strong work ethic. He began with a milk route, hauling canned milk from local farms. He then worked in carpentry for 15 years, where it was clear shortcuts were never an option. John later worked for Andersen Windows, where he remained until retiring at the age of 62—though “retired” is used loosely.

Retirement did not slow him down. For 23 active years, John enjoyed building and selling storage sheds throughout the St. Croix River Valley, proving that retirement simply meant working on his own schedule.

One of the events John most looked forward to each year was the annual Almelund Threshing Show. During his first year of retirement, John restored his prized 1946 John Deere B, which he proudly took to the show each year. He and Nancy would camp for the weekend, joined by their children and grandchildren, making it a cherished family tradition. To John, it was his Super Bowl—and he treated it as such.

When John wasn’t building storage sheds, he treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren, hunting and fishing together. Those moments outdoors—sharing stories, laughter, and life lessons—were among his greatest joys and are memories his family will carry with them always.

John was known for his warm smile and friendly nature. He was well known by many locals and had a way of putting a smile on the faces of everyone he met—often before they even realized they needed one.

John was a faithful member of Eureka Baptist Church.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Louise Hahn; his children John T. Hahn, Corene Hacken, Mike Hahn, and Jason Hahn; 13 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Edith Swagger, Bill Swanson, and Brad Baskin, along with many extended family members and friends.

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” — Proverbs 22:1

Funeral services will be held at Eureka Baptist Church on January 26th. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m., and the memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service.

Last Update: Jan 21, 2026 10:47 am CST