John Shain Jr.

John Shain Jr., 78, of Hibbing, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with his loving family at his side. He was born in Hibbing on May 12th, 1947, to John Sr. and Ellamae (Hosking) Shain.

He grew up in Kelly Lake and graduated from Hibbing High School. John had a nearly forty-year career as a self-taught diesel mechanic with National Steel. He was always in the garage tinkering with something, working on a project, or woodworking. John was an avid sports fan, especially of the Hibbing hockey team. He always sat in the same spot at the Memorial Building. He was always there for every game for his kids, and later, he always wanted to hear stories about how his grandkids were performing. He particularly enjoyed the Packers, Twins, Braves, and Gopher Hockey. John loved to spend time deer hunting north of Kelly Lake in Stevenson and fishing on Coons Lake south of town. He was a family guy and absolutely cherished spending time with them. It was so important to him to provide for and care for them. John loved and adored his wife, Gloria. His world revolved around her, and they are now together again. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness and his quiet, gentle, and soft spirit.

John is survived by his children, Michael (Lynn) Shain, Brian (Sarah) Shain, Amber (Jeff) Benson, and Josh (Tia) Shain; his sister, Sandra Bielecki; eleven grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, and infant sister Carol Jean Shain.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Fairview Range’s Palliative, Home Care, and Hospice team for the exceptional care they have provided to John and his family.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the Dougherty Funeral Home. Visitation will start at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at the Nashwauk Cemetery.

Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing, MN.