Ronnei, John Allen age 64, left us for greater adventures on November 30, 2021. Born April 25, 1957 and raised in Hopkins, John settled down for several joy filled years on a beautiful hobby farm in Ellsworth, WI before moving to St. Paul. A steadfast "fixture" at the Minneapolis Farmers Market for many years selling gorgeous flower arrangements-he was talented and introspective. Though a man of few words, those he spoke were always kind. John loved gardening, cooking, travel and his life in recovery. As is too often the case for those who struggle with addiction, John recently isolated himself and stepped away from many of the relationships that helped support his recovery. We are unspeakably sad to be without him, but take some solace in knowing he is free of the lifelong burden alcoholism created and thankful for the indelible mark he left on our hearts. John was greeted on the other side by his parents, Percy & Fran Ronnei and his nephew Luke. He is survived by his brothers Chuck (Jean) and David (Colleen), nephews John and Nick Ronnei, niece Shelby Grue (Jeff), and great-nephews Ben and Jake. The family will be celebrating John's life privately and we hope those who loved him will do the same. While John appreciated a beautiful arrangement more than most, we know he would be grateful if, in lieu of sending flowers, you would consider a donation to Change the Outcome, a nonprofit dedicated to delivering education to Middle and High School students throughout Minnesota to help reduce the unprecedented number of lives that are being shattered by addiction at: ChangetheOutcome.org If you would like to honor John in another way, we ask that if you know someone battling a substance use disorder-reach out and let them know they are loved. If you are struggling with this disease, we know John would want you to ask for help. Recovery is both possible and wonderful.

Published on December 5, 2021