John “J.O.” Lutjens, age 69, of Valley City, ND, died Friday, December 22nd at SMP Health-St. Raphael in Valley City.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 30th at 2:00 PM at Faith Lutheran Church in Valley City.  Visitation will be held on Friday from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Faith Lutheran.  A prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM Friday evening at the church.  Inurnment will be in Memory Gardens Cemetery near Valley City in the spring.  An online guestbook and livestream of his service will be available at www.lerudmathias.com.

JO was born March 24th, 1954, in Valley City, North Dakota, the son of John (Jack) and Helen (Linerud) Lutjens.  JO grew up in Valley City and attended school there.  In June 1969, JO was badly injured in a car accident.  The accident damaged his knee and somewhat hindered his ability to work and get around but never held back his humor and personality.   JO stayed in Valley City after school, starting work at the Paddock Lounge and Farm Labor Club.  He continued bartending at Boomers for Mark Boom for many years.  JO would also help Kurt Wittenberg (Ernie) with farming, Bob McAllister with construction, his family with dog sitting, and other friends with various jobs.   Throughout his life, JO was an avid hunter, fisherman, sports enthusiast, golfer, and especially liked going on motorcycle rides with his friends. He loved to go shopping at thrift stores and garage sales finding unique items, not just for himself, but always for family and friends.  JO never turned down an opportunity for food.  Many times he would even meet his sister Diana between Sibley and Valley City to pick up something that she made.  JO loved to socialize whether it was rolling dice, playing horse, or watching sports. He really enjoyed having his friends and always having company at his place. 

JO is survived by his sister Diana Wieland, Sibley, ND; Rodney Lutjens, West Fargo, ND; sister in laws Lorraine Lutjens, Mandan, ND and Sheri Lutjens, VC, ND; nieces Lori Quick (Tony Jochim), Tonya (Mark) Schlotman, Eryn and Erika Lutjens; nephews Travis Lutjens, Matt (Megan) Lutjens; and also many great nieces, nephews, and very special friends and relatives. 

JO is preceded in death by his parents; his infant sister Jacqueline; his brother’s Dale and Keith Lutjens; nephew Tommy Wieland Jr.