John Richard Maier

John R. Maier March 18, 1942 – May 8, 2012 On March 18, 1942, John Richard Maier was born to John F. and Wilma B. Maier of La Crosse, Wisconsin. He grew up there, graduated from Logan Senior High School, and then enlisted in the U.S. Army. He studied Slavic Languages at the U.S. Defense Language Institute - Presidio of Monterey, served the Army as a linguist. Following his service duties, he traveled to different countries of the world until France and Quebec won his soul. It was then that he decided to continue study languages at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, where he completed a B.S. in French, Spanish, and German Education; and a M.S. at the DesL L’Univ de Montreal: DesL, L “Univ Laval de Quebec. He went on to teach at Memorial High School in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. He loved teaching, and several times, he escorted students to Canada where they could savor the use of their newly learned second language. John settled into his home by the Chippewa River and graced the banks of his property with herbs, perennials, and shrubs, which spoke of his talents. He was known for his passion for gourmet foods, photography, building a harpsichord, but especially his Afghan hounds. He spent several decades breeding and training registered marvelous Afghans for show and prided himself with Dhi’Amont (Beau) who earned the American Kennel Club Award for Best of Show/Champion Hound of the Year. John was exceptionally proud of a syndicated photo in LIFE magazine of Beau and him from the rear in his MG Midget, where both he and Beau appeared as two blonde adult riders. A little over a decade ago, he acquired Rene`and Bis!, the Afghans who became his final beloved companions. John's disabilities interfered with much of his life, and yet stoically he continued creating gourmet dinners, baking artisan breads, and sharing homemade food and gifts with others. He spent many hours with satellite dishes and building computers, enabling him to connect with friends and use the French language. When his home was destroyed by fire in December, 2012, John and Bis! moved into the city of Eau Claire to establish a new life. One sister, Jean (Kevin) Kronebusch, one brother Jeffery (Betty) Maier, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and one great, great niece survive John. His parents, a brother, a nephew, and a great niece preceded him in death. Inurnment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery with full military honors on June 15, 2012 at 1:00 PM. There will be a gathering at Todd & Debi Kronebusch residence, 2735 Garland Lane, Plymouth, MN following the service.