John James "Jack" Gaddie , 97, passed away peacefully February 5th, 2025 at Altru Hospital of Grand Forks, ND.

A lifelong resident of East Grand Forks, MN, Jack is survived by his sons Michael, Blane, James, Scott, Patrick, and his daughters Jacqueline (Bup) and Kathleen (Smooch), scores of grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.

He was preceded in death by his beloved Annabelle, his parents, Walter and Josephine (Driscoll) Gaddie, and his siblings, Leroy, Dorothy, Robert, Lenore, Madonna and Michael.

Jack's passions were numerous, from fishing and cards to every manner of sport, especially golf.  After enlisting in the military and serving honorably in Korea, Jack's professional life saw him own or partner in 13 businesses over his career.

Jack graduated from Sacred Heart in 1946.  It was in high school that Jack met the love of his life, Annabelle. They married on August 24, 1948 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  At times both amusing and confounding, Jack and Annabelle built a partnership that, while unorthodox, would prove to be a fine example for their entire family.

Jack and Annabelle entered married life in the modest accommodations of Jack's parents, Josephine and Walter, as Jack attended the University of North Dakota. Before long, the first of seven blessings would christen their household.

Equal parts gruff, impatient, loving and hilarious, Jack was an "interesting," if not always appropriate role model for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jack and Annabelle were fortunate enough to travel the globe.  They took great pleasure in visiting exotic locations, with Rio de Janeiro, Hawaii and Ireland amongst their favorite locations.

In retirement, Jack and Annabelle were able to spend their winters in their beloved Mesa, AZ for many years.

Jack was a character, through and through. He is now eternally reunited with his bride and best friend in heaven. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Jack's Celebration of Life Mass:  Monday, April 7, 2025 at 11:30 am in Sacred Heart Catholic Church East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 10:30.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Gaddie Family Scholarship Fund as part of the Sacred Heart Foundation.

INTERMENT: Resurrection Cemetery of East Grand Forks, MN will immediately follow the Mass with Military Honors rendered by the East Grand Forks American Legion Post #157, VFW Post #3817, and the MN Army National Guard.