John F. LaDien, 89 of Jefferson, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.

John was born on July 14, 1936, in Watertown, WI, the son of Raymond and Beata (Welter) LaDien.  He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1954 and joined the United States Marine Corp. soon after.  Upon returning from his military service, John married Vanita Brunk on October 12, 1960, the couple had 4 children and enjoyed 22 years of marriage until her death on October 10, 1982.  On October 22, 1983, John married Lois Oppermann at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Jefferson.  John was a salesman in the food industry for the majority of his working years and was employed at multiple area businesses.  John was a deer hunter, appreciated fine automobiles, and traveled extensively with Lois.  “Polka, Polka, Polka” was his favorite television show, and John and Lois followed multiple polka bands, especially Steve Meisner, closely.  A long-time and dedicated Christian man, John was very involved in St. John’s Male Chorus and a proud supporter of Lakeside Lutheran High School and Twice Is Nice.  John was the Sexton of Christberg Cemetery for years, a thankless job that was done with organization and detail.  John will be remembered for his love of people, his dedication to his faith, family, and country.  Although he will be sorely missed, his family is comforted in knowing he now rests in Heaven.

He is survived by: his wife Lois LaDien of Jefferson; children LaVon LaDien of Jefferson, Renee (Don) Probst of Altoona, Nathan LaDien of Jefferson, Rachel (Eric) Dellamater of Waukesha, and Dale (Karleen) Oppermann of Jefferson; 13 grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; a sister Marion Streich of Jefferson; brother-in-law Kenneth Nelson of Fort Atkinson; other relatives and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Bonnie Oppermann, siblings Joanne Nelson, Michael LaDien, and his brother-in-law Kenneth Streich.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church or Lakeside Lutheran High School would be appreciated.

A Christian Funeral Service will be held at 11:00AM on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church of Jefferson with Rev. Joshua Martin presiding.  Visitation will be on Wednesday from 9:00AM until the time of service at the church.  John will be buried with full military honors at Christberg Cemetery following the funeral service.