John Edward Carl Karjalainen, age 88, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away Monday, February 4, 2013, at the VA Medical Center in Hot Springs.

John was born on November 6, 1927, near Gackle, ND. In 1925 his family moved to a farm near Frederick, SD, where he grew up and attended school, graduating in 1942.

John was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1944, and served in the China, Burma, India Theater. He was honorably discharged in May 1946. Following his discharge he enrolled in Northern State College in Aberdeen, SD, graduating in 1951. Shortly after graduation he embarked on his career in the insurance business.

In 1966, John married Marcelene Fleming. They had one son. In 1991, John married Patricia Mueller.

John was a life member of The Elks, VFW, American Legion, Past Master of Harmony Lodge 110, Scottish Rite, Shriners, and a member of St. John's Lutheran Church. John served as a volunteer at the VA Medical Center for almost 30 years.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia of Hot Springs; son, Brett of Erie, CO; brothers, Elmer and Fred of Aberdeen, SD; and five step children and nine grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Marcelene, and four brothers.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 7, 2013, at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 8, 2013, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hot Springs with Pastor Dwayne Hunzeker officiating.

Interment will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 8, 2013, at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in John's name to benefit St. John's Lutheran Church in Hot Springs or the Naja Shrine Hospital Travel Fund, 4091 Sturgis Road, Rapid City, SD 57702

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences may be made to www.mccolleyschapels,com.