John Sewall

Join friends and family for a small graveside memorial on Friday, October 2nd at 1pm, followed by a small reception in the Garden Mausoleum Chapel from 2-4pm.

Lakewood Cemetery
3600 Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Section 16, Lot 59b, Grave 3

It is with deep respect and gratitude for the love we shared with our beloved John Douglas Sewall that we announce his passing on September 20th, 2026. Born on January 19, 1937, in Minneapolis, MN, and raised in Kenwood Parkway. John was a very hospitable, charismatic and talented figure, radiating warmth and creativity throughout his 89 years.

His life was a testament to his smart, creative nature, and passion for work in broadcasting and production. Shaped during his years in DeLaSalle High School, John explored every opportunity to develop his budding interests from being head of Newspaper Club, National Honor Society, Swim Team, to Glee Club. One of his proudest early accomplishments was to become an Eagle Scout. Many of these pursuits blossom throughout his lifetime. John loved to fly, was an agile, single-ski water skier, lent his perfect pitch voice to many choirs, enjoyed big band and jazz music, solitude in nature, trap shooting, and classic movies.

John served in the Coast Guard, the reserves, and led a fulfilling career in radio and TV production. He became an accomplished broadcaster and weather man for WCCO Television and radio, where one could hear his distinctive "announcer" voice combined with love for classic, good music coast to coast. John was a man of many talents and passions. As a devout and faithful servant of God, John combined his boundless creativity and love for the Lord most significantly by producing a dramatized version of the New Testament, bringing the word of God to life for many. In addition, John also started the television station, Faith Broadcasting Network, FBN, bringing family oriented content to the public.

Later in life, John reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Barb. They married and spent most of their long and loving 40 years together in Duluth, MN. Their London Road home on Lake Superior was a lovely retreat for all who visited.

John leaves behind his loving wife, Barb Sewall, and his devoted daughters, Sheila Sewall, Heather Torgerson, and Jennifer Bennett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlotte O'malley and Samuel Sewall, and his siblings, Samuel, Mike, and Sheila. John's memory will be treasured by his family and all those who knew him.

We invite you to share your cherished memories of John on his memorial page and upload photos that capture his spirited compassion. Let us celebrate John's life and the joy he brought to us all. In doing so, we can collectively celebrate the life of a man who was a beacon of faith, love, and creativity. "Lean not on your own understanding, but in all ways acknowledge the Lord." Proverbs 3:5-6