Farrell, John Francis, Jr. Jack, 82, died suddenly of natural causes at his beloved northern retreat, “Villa Vino,” in Deerwood, MN, on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Born January 17, 1942, the eldest of five brothers and one sister to John and Gertrude Farrell in Chicago, he attended Fenwick High School in Oak Park, Illinois, and then studied pharmacy at Butler University. Jack began his business career with Gold Seal Co. in Bismarck, ND, as a “Mr. Bubble” salesman. Jack purchased Haskell’s in 1970 at the beginning of the wine explosion in the U.S. He took the cause and ran it, giving Haskell’s the international reputation it has today. His wish list was full, he had traveled the world to find new wines. He touted these wines for over 50 years on his weekly radio show, “Entertaining Ideas,” on WCCO. He dispelled the myth of wine snobbery and became a mentor to many in the industry. He was named Retailer of the Year in 2019 by industry magazine Market Watch. Jack was a founder and active member of many wine societies, including the Chevalier du Tastevin in MPLS and Naples, FL, the Chaines de Rôtisseurs, the International Wine & Food Society, Amateur Chefs, and the Long Meadow Hunt Club. He served on the boards of the Minnesota Orchestra, Basilica Landmark, Vocal Essence, and was a patron of the Vatican Museum of Art. His generous heart led him to support countless other charities, churches, and causes. He was a longtime member of the Minneapolis Club, Naples Yacht Club, Minnesota Breakfast Club, and a former member of the Minikahda Club. Jack was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Kevin and Jerry. Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Cathy, and his sons, John (Sue), Brian (Ann), Ted (Laura), and Beau (Christie); 9 fabulous grandchildren: Adam, Maddie (Matt) Gallagher, Molly, Allison, Teddy, John Charles, Lovey, Patrick, and Asher; 3 brothers: Terry (Anne), Marty (Sharon), Michael; sister Patricia Kozma; and many nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Funeral at the Basilica of Saint Mary, Friday, August 23, 11:00 a.m. Visitation one hour prior to the service. Reception to follow at the Minneapolis Club. Bow ties are welcome but not required. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to Basilica Landmark, Minnesota Orchestra, Vocal Essence, or donor’s choice.
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