John Robert Ullstrom, 86

John Robert Ullstrom

1937—2024

John Ullstrom, age 86, passed away on April 14, 2024, in Rolla, Missouri, where he was living with his daughter. John, son of Ellen (Peterson) and Harold Alf Ullstrom, grew up in the Rako area of Lake of the Woods County. He attended one-room schools, often taught by his mother, who was a teacher. John was an extremely bright student. He went to high school in Baudette, graduating in 1954.

Soon after graduation, John joined the Air Force. He was sent to Yale University, where he became fluent in the Chinese language, a skill he used during his tour of duty. After retirement, he lived in New Mexico, where he mined turquoise, creating lovely jewelry and belt buckles. After moving to California, he was employed in tree-cutting services. In later years, John’s favorite pastime was working on the skills required for success in card rooms and casinos.

John was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Gene (2016) and Daniel (2024). He is survived by his son Mark (Stephanie Lim) and daughter Monique Ross; brother William, sister Mary Messenger (Chris), and sister-in-law Dolores; several cousins; grandchildren Kaylee Ullstrom, Robert Lyons, Erica Lyons, and Morgan Foor; and great-grandchildren Max, Camilla, Jayden, Genesis, and Juissana.

Internment: Fort Leonard Wood Cemetery, Pulaski Cty., Missouri.