Jesse J Vouk

Jesse Jacob Vouk

Jesse Vouk, 57, of Oak Grove, MN, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family following a tragic accident. He was born in St. Cloud, MN, on February 25th, 1968, to Ruth M. (Mueller) and William F. Vouk Jr. Jesse grew up in St. Stephen, MN, and joined the Army after graduating from Sartell High School. He served in the 11th Armored Cavalry, Black Horse Regiment, for two years and was later called back for Desert Storm.

While in college, he met his future bride, Julie Stern. They were married at Christ Church Newman Center on June 3rd, 1995—after which Jesse lovingly pestered her for the next thirty years.

After graduating from St. Cloud State University with a degree in biomedical science, Jesse worked for many years in the metal industry as a salesman. He was skilled in everything from chemical processing to vendor relations and advanced to General Manager at Birchwood Casey Laboratories.

Jesse was a longtime member of St. Patrick’s Church in Oak Grove where he devoutly prayed for ten feet of snow. He was an active member of American Legion Post #622 in St. Francis, MN. While he previously served as Post Commander and in the Color Guard, he was best known for sharing his theme song, Flowers On The Wall, broken record style. He enjoyed fishing, kayaking, hunting, snowmobiling, woodworking, and horseback riding. He was generous in helping others with projects of all kinds—from moving to elaborate construction work. He loved his family, horses (Spendy, Sky, and Khemotion), and co-survivor dog Cracey Grrrl. Jesse had a remarkable and unique sense of humor—often enjoyed and sometimes endured by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his infant brother, Jonathon. Jesse is survived by his wife; children Sarah Tasto (Aaron), Nick Tasto (Abby), and Rachel; granddaughters Ivory and Elizaveta; parents; brothers William III (Colleen), Christopher, David (Janice), and Garrick (Bernadette); and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

The funeral Mass will take place at St. Patrick’s in Oak Grove on Friday, July 11th at 11:00am, with visitation at 10:30am, followed by a reception at American Legion Post #622 in St. Francis, at 12:30pm. Burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Acres For Life would be appreciated. https://www.acresforlife.org/donate/