John L. Vasichek, 80, of Grand Forks, N.D., passed away on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026.
John was born on Nov. 8, 1945. He was raised in Lankin, N.D., by his grandmother, Anna, alongside his three sisters. In that time, John learned the lessons of family, hard work, faith, and perseverance.
On July 27, 1968, John married his lifelong sweetheart, Darlene Matejcek. Together, they shared 58 years of marriage and raised their family. John and Darlene resided most of their lives in Grand Forks, where they were active members of Holy Family Catholic Church. John was also involved with the Lions Club, American Legion, and other community organizations.
John graduated from the University of North Dakota and proudly served as an officer in the North Dakota National Guard. He began his broadcasting career at KNOX Radio. He later co-founded the Red River Farm Network, where he served the farming community that he cared about deeply. A proud member of the National Association of Farm Broadcasters, John valued the friendships and relationships he formed throughout his career.
John loved reading, spending time at Island Lake with family and friends, and hunting the North Dakota prairie with his boys. He loved to bring vintage lanterns, and other “old things” back to life. In retirement, John developed a passion for metal detecting, where he formed many special relationships with his fellow Arizona and North Dakota treasure seekers.
John’s faith was an important and steady part of his life. He often found meaning in the opening verses of the Book of James, Chapter 1, verses 1 through 10, which speak to perseverance, wisdom, faith, and the enduring strength found in God. These words reflected the quiet faith and humble spirit with which John lived his life.
John’s light inspired and carried those around him. He will be remembered by his smile, sense of humor, kindness, love, and wisdom.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene Vasichek; his children, Jason Vasichek, Shelby Vasichek and David (Shayana) Vasichek; his grandchildren, Tucker Vasichek, Saul Vasichek, and Marion Vasichek; and all of his nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Judy (John) Hodny, Mary (Thomas) Numedahl, and Dorothy (John) Wallerius; and by his daughter-in-law, Kathy Vasichek, wife of Jason.
Visitation with a prayer service was held on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Lakota, ND.
Mass of Christian Burial was on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Devils Lake, ND with visitation one hour before the mass.
Burial was at St. Catherine Catholic Cemetery, Lomice, rural Lawton, ND.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Catherine Catholic Cemetery, Lomice, rural Lawton, ND.
Arrangements by Aaker Funeral Home, Lakota, ND.