John H. Payne

John H. Payne, 87, of La Crosse passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024. He was born in La Crosse on May 16, 1936, to Hegbert C. and Ruth (Jonas) Payne. John graduated from La Crosse Central High School in 1954. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged.

John married Patricia A. Peart on September 20, 1958. He retired from Hawkins, Ash, Baptie and Co. in May of 1998.

John was survived by his loving wife Pat of 66 years; two sons, Jeffrey J. (Rose) Payne of St. Paul, MN and Timothy D. (Kim) Payne of Prescott, WI; six grandchildren, Katie (Nate) Williams, Kellie (fiance’ Stephan Nordeng) Payne, Curtis “C.J.” (Taylor) Payne, Zak Payne, Tyler Payne and Andy Payne; four great grandchildren, Emma Williams, Alice “Ali” Williams, Caleb Nordeng, and Sydney Payne along with a brother, Scott (Dorothy) Payne of La Crosse. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Gary Payne; two sisters, Starleen (Sherril) Hendry and Janice (Robert) Gilbertson.

A Memorial service for Pat and John will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Pastor Harald Bringsjord will officiate. Burials will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 AM until the time of services. Memorials may be directed to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in La Crosse, the Children’s Miracle Network, the Mississippi Valley Conservancy or a charity of choice.

Pat and John’s family would like to thank Gundersen Health System, Hillview Health Care Center, and Bethany St. Joseph Care Center for their wonderful care of our parents.