John Milton Chell

John Milton Chell of Plymouth MN, passed away on October 25, 2026 at the age of 94.

John was born in Fort Dodge, IA to Bernice and Reverend Anton Chell on October 3, 1932.

John attended Kensington, MN High School ('50), Gustavus Adolphus College ('54), Augustana Seminary, Rock Island, IL ('58). During his pastoral internship in Chicago, John met the love of his life, Rose Marie Jebavy. They were married in 1959 in Porter, IN. John served Augsburg Lutheran in Porter IN, St. Andrews Lutheran in Speedway IN, and finally House of Prayer (HOP) Lutheran in Richfield, MN. His 23-year ministry at HOP is well known for his ecumenical work in the community with VEAP, Minneapolis Council of Churches, Luther Park Church Camp, Mall Area Religious Council (MARC), Chaplaincy at HCMC and the MN State Fair.

John retired from HOP in 1992 but continued his ministry by spending much time at the Mall of America with MARC's vision of meeting the spiritual needs of shoppers and promoting a deeper understanding of all religions and diversity in the world. In 2012 John and Rose Marie moved to Summerwood of Plymouth where he was called Pastor John. He was known for leading table prayers, singing, and helping the staff. He was a blessed man that shared his blessings with whoever he met.

John and Rose Marie found great joy in God's creation at their Lake Augusta cabin where they enjoyed fishing, gardening, boating and giving John Deer tractor rides to the grandchildren. John held season tickets to Gopher Basketball for almost 50 years. He loved sharing his passion for "The Barn" with family and friends.

Pastor John is survived by his daughters, Carol (Doug) Talus and Paula (Erik) Scott; grandchildren, Bryan (Leah), Eric (Allie), Emily, and Marit; great-grandchildren, Brielle, Tenley, Elsie, and Sylvie; sister, Ruth (Robert) Oliphant as well as nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Rose Marie (2018) and brother Paul (Sheri) Chell.

A sincere thanks to Summerwood of Plymouth and Optage Hospice for their loving care.

On November 6, 2026, John will be celebrated at St. Barnabas Lutheran Church in Plymouth with visitation starting at 1:00 pm followed by a memorial service at 2:00 pm.

Memorials in honor of John may be sent to St Barnabas Lutheran Church. Plymouth MN.