Jack Kangas
March 10, 1940 - July 1, 2025
LAKE LINDEN — Jack Kangas “Cactus Jack”, age 85, of Lake Linden, passed away on July 1, 2025, at Our Lady of Mercy in Hubbell, with family by his side.
He was born on March 10, 1940, in Lawler, Minnesota. Jack was a tool and die maker/machinist. After retirement, he drove a community bus for AEOA Transit in Two Harbors, Minnesota.
Jack loved playing music and enjoying time with family.
He had a “love connection” with his wife, Nanda, like no other. Together, they played in a country band, “Stubborn Country,” for over 40 years in many different areas in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan. They did anything and everything to help communities all over.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Nanda Kangas; mother, Selma Pohjonen; father, Arnold Kangas; brother, Roger Kangas; sister, Pat Costley; and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Costley and Bud Lewis.
Jack is survived by: children, Keith (Mary) Kangas of Gwinn, Mark (Rachel) Kangas of Racine, Wisconsin, Leilani (Bill) Maydole of Two Harbors, Cynthia Kangas of Lake Linden; step-children, Mona and Randy; grandchildren, Gregg (Jenny) Kangas, Samantha (Mitch) Nault, Heather Harrington, Amanda Kangas, Sarah Kangas, Kristen (Kate) Wojcik, Lauren Kangas, Leah York, Kyle York, and Brooke Shemak; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandbaby, Jonathan Johnston; brothers and sisters, Russ (Debbie) Kangas, Linda Lewis, Mary Nuoffer, Mike (Diane) Kangas, and Tammy Cardinal; many nieces, nephews, and friends; and his favorite ex-wife, Annie.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation and gratitude to the staff at Our Lady of Mercy.
A celebration of life will be held in Minnesota at a later date. The Pearce Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be shared at pearcefuneralhome.com.