John A. Pinsonneault, 39, of North Branch, died on October 14, 2004 as a result of a tragic bombing in Iraq.
John was born on April 2, 1965 and grew up in Crookston. He graduated from Crookston Central High School in 1983. In 1985 he joined the Marine Corp and served eight years of active duty and then five years as a reservist with Delta Battery Second Battalion and 14th Marines out of Waterloo, Iowa. Along with his compassion for his country, John also had a deep devotion to his family and community. He coached football, hockey and girls Junior Olympic softball. In 2000 he was elected mayor of North Branch and served one and one-half years. Before leaving for Iraq, he was a successful district manager for Farm Bureau Financial Services. In 1999/2000, he was added to Lexington Whos Who registry; also he was named one of the 100 most intriguing people of 2002. Johns deep commitment of everything he did was admirable.
John is survived by his wife Lorie of North Branch; one daughter, Ashley Pinsonneault of Wahpeton, N.D.; his parents, Gerald and Carol Pinsonneault of Thief River Falls; one sister, Beth (Robert) Perry of Grand Forks, North Dakota; nephews, Matthew and Joseph Perry ; nieces, Rachel and Megan Perry. Interment was in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.