John Raphael (Jack) Baynes

John Raphael (Jack) Baynes was born on February 17, 1937, in Le Sueur, MN to Matt and Rose Baynes. Jack passed away peacefully on November 30, 2022. 

Jack was the sixth of seven children in the family. He became the man of the house at an early age when his father passed away. He took pride in caring for his mother and younger sister Rosemary. Jack graduated from Le Sueur High School in 1955. He was active in athletics and voted the best-looking guy in his senior class. Following high school Jack enlisted in the US Navy where he was trained as an electrician and worked on a naval aircraft carrier. Jack served in the Navy for eight years. 

While stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas Jack married his high school sweetheart, Jean Garvin. After Jack finished his stint in the Navy, the couple returned to Minnesota where Jack was employed at Kato Engineering in Mankato. Jack was interested in being his own boss and controlling his own destiny which led him to a career with State Farm Insurance. He was a successful and caring agent who took care of his customers like his own family. Jack had a long and distinguished career with State Farm. He won many awards and trips throughout the years. 

Jack was very devoted to his community and church. He served on the city council, parish council, Springfield EDA, Springfield Hospital Board, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, and anywhere else he was needed. He was a supporter of the Springfield Golf Club and enjoyed being a member there for many years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #257. 

Jack was happiest when he was at the cabin in Hackensack or on the golf course. He taught his kids and grandkids to golf and fish and left them with many memories to cherish. If you ever played golf with him, he would remind you to keep your head down and swing easy. He and Jean enjoyed many trips over the years, but the best memories were made at the cabin.  

Jack is survived by his children Shannon (Mike) Nuy, Colleen (Eric) Hass, Tom Baynes, and Joan (Jeff) Scharmer. He is also survived by grandchildren: Laura and Alex Nuy, E.J. (Matthew) Lee, Katelyn Scharmer, and Hannah and Ian Hass and four beloved great-grandsons: Teddy, Beau, Freddie, and George Lee. He was preceded in death by his wife Jean, parents, siblings and other relatives. 

Private family funeral will be held with burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.