John M. Running

John M. Running, age 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026. He was born on May 15, 1938, son of the late Mark and Alice (Vander Heiden) Running.

John graduated from Appleton High School in 1957 and then answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army followed by the National Guard. 

John’s life was shaped by the families he built and cherished, and they remained his greatest joy and purpose.  He was first married to his former wife, Betty, with whom he shared four children. After their journey together came to an end, John began a new chapter in 1993 when he married Jude, adding two more children to his heart and home.  For 33 years, John and Jude shared a life built on love, trust, and laughter.

John was a hard worker by nature — someone who showed love through action. He spent years working in hydro power plants in Appleton for Wisconsin Electric Power and Wisconsin Energy and ended his career at Point Beach, all roles that suited his sharp mind, steady hands, and unwavering dependability. Outside of work, he was rarely still. If something needed fixing, building, hauling, or figuring out, John was already halfway through the job before anyone else had gathered the tools. He volunteered his time freely at the local YMCA, homeless shelters, and hospitals always helping others without hesitation or expectation.

But John’s steady, hardworking nature came with a mischievous streak that made life around him lighter. He loved a good prank — the kind that made you laugh even as you shook your head.  John delighted in bringing a smile to the people he loved. His humor was gentle, clever, and unforgettable.  For those who were fortunate to hear him tell tales of his past capers and laugh along so heartily that he could barely finish the story, you witnessed his true nature.

His hobbies reflected his curiosity and craftsmanship. In his later years, John loved woodworking, creating pieces that were both practical and meaningful. He cherished spending summer days at the family cottage, where the pace of life slowed and memories were made. In the winter months, he found joy fishing the bays in Sarasota and soaking in the sunshine.  He enjoyed traveling and exploring new places and ventured throughout the U.S. with his young children and later throughout Europe, Canada, and Puerto Rico with Jude.

John especially loved his grandchildren and always made time for all of them in his life.  He attended school events, assisted with projects, and included them as often as possible.  He was so very proud of all their accomplishments and spoke of them often.  His message to all parents was simple and consistent:  “Love them truly and enjoy every minute for they grow up so fast”. 

John is survived by his loving wife, Jude Running; his children: Cynthia Running, Peter (Jody) Running, Susan (Kevin) Running-Finger, and Dan (Vicki) Running; his grandchildren: Heidi (Sam Liester) Hoffmann, Nate (Amy) Hoffmann, Andrew (Cassandra) Running, Brittany (Samuel) Braaten, Miranda Running-Finger, Nora Running-Finger, and Samuel (Alexis) Running; 9 great-grandchildren; Jude’s children: Bill (Marcie) Shockley and Tom (Beth) Shockley; Jude’s grandchildren: Jack Shockley, Lucy Shockley, Henry Shockley, and Elsa Shockley; siblings: Jim (Kathy) Running, Pat Rueckl, Tom (Susan) Running, Jerry (Beverly) Running; and many special nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Bryanna Running; sister, Barb Kranzusch; and his first wife, Betty Gregori.

A Funeral Mass for John will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 1617 W. Pine St., Appleton, WI 54914. Visitation will begin at the church at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of the Mass. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

The family would like to thank the staff, CNA’s and kitchen staff at The Living Tree for their loving care of John. His special caregivers, TaTa, Florie, Alba, Rainen, Lauranne and Mr. Moe! You all were John’s angels when his family wasn’t there. Moments Hospice was amazing keeping John comfortable and his family so well-informed and prepared.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to Jude and the family in John’s memory.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.