He was born March 26, 1948, in Marshall, Minn., to Ronald and Beatrice (Popowski) Longtin. He was a graduate of Saint John's University of Minnesota.
On Nov. 17, 1995, he married Cheryl Elyane Case in Minneapolis, Minn.
John was an accomplished educator. He was employed as a teacher and coach for Roncalli High School in Aberdeen, principal for 25 years in South Dakota, Minnesota, North Dakota and Colorado and was a superintendent of schools for seven years in the St. Paul, Minn., area.
John's passion was spending time with his family and friends. His hobbies included boating, fishing, cooking and watching football. He was a Guardian Ad Litem, which made him a strong advocate and representative protecting children of all ages.
John had an outgoing disposition and always fought for fairness. His genuine concern for people and families was exuded in his professional and personal life. John was an inspiration and mentor to all of the lives he touched. He was a truly kind husband, father and friend that will be dearly missed.
John is survived by his wife, Cheryl; mother, Beatrice Longtin; son, Tyler John (Melanie) Longtin, Easley, S.C.; daughter, Jennifer Jo (Gordy) Schmidt, Aberdeen; siblings: Ronald (Phyllis) Longtin; Katie Conner, Mark (Anita) Longtin and Mike (Roni) Longtin; and grandchildren: Collin, Taylor and Micah Schmidt, Aberdeen; and Leah Longtin, Easley, S.C.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Longtin Sr.
Memorials can be made to the "Longtin Memorial" in care of Adamson Funeral and Cremation Services, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Jennifer Schmidt, 39532 Pintail Ave., Bath, SD 57427.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Aug. 22, 2013, at Mary, Mother of the Church in Burnsville, Minn.