John Joseph Ince

John Joseph Ince, age 79, of Shakopee, MN, passed away on August 13, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM with Time of Gathering from 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM on Monday, August 25, 2025 at St. Mark Catholic Church, 350 Atwood St S, Shakopee, MN. John will be laid to rest immediately following mass at Shakopee Catholic Cemetery, 830 10th Ave W, Shakopee, MN.

John's life was a beacon of inspiration, exemplifying his spirit, unshakeable commitment to loved ones. Raised in Shakopee, he left an indelible mark on track and field, setting a mile run record that stood for 12 years after graduation. John's courageous nature shone through his service in the Vietnam War from December 22, 1965, to September 1, 1967. He found his partner in life, Gayle Dexter, and together, they crafted a life filled with travel, games, dance, and a cherished cabin up north that brought him joy for 34 years. Their love was blessed with three children, whom John cherished and taught invaluable life skills like fishing and hunting, which were his passion, instilling in them a sense of adventure. As his family grew with seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and one on the way, John's legacy of love, laughter, and adventure continued to inspire and uplift. His contagious humor and gift for storytelling left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He worked for the phone company for 30 years and has been retired for 25 years. For 20 years, he embodied the spirit of Santa Claus, spreading joy and happiness to countless hearts. John's impact will be felt for generations to come, a testament to the transformative power of his love and legacy.

John is loved and will be missed by wife, Gayle Ince; children, Doreen (Todd Davies) Ince, Jason (Jacqueline Robinette) Ince, Joelle (Brian Paar) Ince; grandchildren, Casandra, Chance, Cody, Jordan, Jenna, Abbie, Ashley; great grandchildren, Faith, Toby, Lenora; siblings, Father Michael Ince, Mary Carol (Edward) Seiberlich, Cleon (Bev) Ince, Bernice (Jim) Schaak, twin sister Joan Gast, Richard Ince; sisters-in-law, Mary Ince, Kathy Ince.

He is preceded in death by parents, Chester and Marie Ince; infant siblings, Cecelia Rose, Mary Jane; siblings, Jerry Ince, Peter Ince, James Ince; sister-in-law, Vicki Ince; brother-in-law Duane Gast.