John “Jack” Gabrelcik, age 81, of Delano, Minnesota, passed away on April 23, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 6, 1944, in Buffalo, Minnesota, Jack grew up on a farm, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance—qualities that shaped him throughout his life.

Jack graduated from Delano High School, where he proudly played football and built friendships that lasted decades. His love of sports continued well into adulthood through many years of fastpitch softball, a pastime he enjoyed as much for the competition as for the camaraderie.

An outdoorsman through and through, Jack found joy in deer hunting and fishing alongside his siblings and friends. When he wasn’t in the woods or on the water, he spent time tending his vegetable garden and appreciating the simple, steady pleasures of nature. These passions became traditions he shared with his family and carried with him throughout his life.

Jack was preceded in death by his infant son, baby Gabrelcik; his brother, Jim (Bunnie) Gabrelcik; and his brother‑in‑law, Dennis Bartos.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 62 years, Karlene (Craft) Gabrelcik; and his daughter, Melanie Myers, whose support and humor brightened his days. Jack was a proud grandfather to five grandsons and a great‑grandfather to seven great‑grandchildren. He treasured his growing family, each of whom brought him joy.

He is also survived by his siblings Richard “Dick” (Ginger) Gabrelcik, Paul Gabrelcik, Shirley Bartos, and Bill Gabrelcik; his friend Mary Peterson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jack will be remembered for his quiet strength, his steady presence, and the way he showed love through action—helping, providing, and being there whenever he was needed. His legacy lives on in the family he adored.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Parish, St. Peter Campus, in Delano, Minnesota. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 10–11 AM. Private family inurnment will take place at a later date.