John Gollnick

John Gollnick, 73, of Webster, passed away, Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Sun Dial Manor in Bristol.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30am Monday, July 28, 2025, at Christ The King Catholic Church in Webster. Interment will be at St. Otto's Catholic Cemetery near Webster.

Visitation will be Sunday 5-7pm closing with a 7pm wake service at the funeral home.

John Anthony Gollnick was born on August 3, 1951, to Francis and Dolores (Bierschbach) Gollnick in Webster, South Dakota. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Otto’s Catholic Church in Webster, where he also attended St. Otto’s Parochial School. John graduated from Webster High School in 1970, where he was actively involved in football, wrestling, FFA, and 4-H.

On December 15, 1973, John was united in marriage to Lana Hoberg at Christ the King Catholic Church in Webster. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and farming, raising three children Daren, Kara, and Amy on their farm northwest of Webster.

John’s lifelong passion was farming. He dedicated countless hours to raising chickens, hogs, cattle, and crops, finding both purpose and pride in his work. In 1986, his brother Mike joined the operation, and together they carried forward the family’s farming tradition. The Gollnick farm was always full of energy and warmth, especially during the summer months, when John and his family cherished Sundays spent at the lake.

He was a devoted supporter of his children’s and, later, his grandchildren’s many activities—whether attending sporting events or lending a hand with 4-H livestock projects. John took immense pride in his family’s accomplishments and found great joy in watching them grow and succeed. His children and grandchildren were a constant source of pride and fulfillment.

John found joy in annual fishing trips to Canada, as well as frequent visits to his favorite local “honey hole,” where he enjoyed both open-water and ice fishing throughout the seasons. He also loved camping with family and traveling with Lana. Together, they explored destinations such as Alaska, the Bahamas, Florida, and the Black Hills, creating many cherished memories. John especially valued Saturday morning coffee with friends at the cabin. In 2007, he and Lana built a new home north of Webster on Highway 25. John retired from farming in 2022.

John was a faithful member of Christ the King Catholic Church, where he served as an usher and as a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters. He also contributed to his community through his service on the Webster Township Board and the Pierpont Cenex Board of Directors.

John passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at the age of 73 years, 11 months, and 21 days, in Bristol, South Dakota. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lana; their children, Daren (Melanie) Gollnick, Kara (Brian) Zaug, and Amy (JaDee) Dwight; and five cherished grandchildren: Aleaya and Evan Gollnick, Brooke and Bailey Dwight, and Briley Zaug. He is also survived by his brother, Mike (Karlene) Gollnick; his sister, Dianne (Pete) Haugen; brother-in-law, Gary Wik; and many nieces, nephews, step-mother, Helen Gollnick of Watertown, SD, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Kenny Gollnick; and his sister, Donna Wik.

John will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to family, his tireless work ethic, and his kind and generous spirit. His pride in his family and love for his community leave a lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.