John “Jack” Arvid Kaarto, age 88, of Gordon, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 4, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota, with his family at his bedside.

Jack was born to the late Arvid Eino and Leila (Peterson) Kaarto. He dedicated many years to his career as a skilled Engineer with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Outside of work, Jack was a true outdoorsman who found immense joy in nature. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and he could almost always be found staying busy with a project around the house.

Jack was a deeply loving and dedicated family man. For 34 wonderful years, he shared his life and home in Gordon with his beloved wife, Gail, and their loyal dogs, Raven and Sadie. His warmth, strength, and unwavering devotion will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Kaarto; his children, Jeff (Kim) Kaarto of Brussels, WI, Debbie Kaarto (Bruce Metallo) of Kenosha, WI, Brian Kaarto of Superior, WI, and Mark (Maijaliisa) Kaarto of Superior, WI; and his stepson, Jason Nummi (partner Albert) of San Diego, CA. He is also survived by his grandson, Hunter (Kaitlyn) Kaarto of Alberta, Canada; his great-grandson, Kylo; and his brother, Dick (Lynn) Kaarto of Cushing, MN; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Arvid Eino Kaarto and Leila Peterson; and his two brothers, Don and Bob Kaarto.

As Jack explicitly wished, formal funeral services will not be observed. The family will honor his memory privately, with a celebration of life to be announced in the future.