John Henry Landsiedel V
July 2, 1992 – July 25, 2025
John Henry Landsiedel V, 33, of Minot, ND, died tragically in a plane crash in Dillingham, Alaska, on July 25, 2025.
John was born July 2, 1992, to Jay and Denise (McDonald) Landsiedel. John grew up in Minot with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a passion for adventure. He graduated from Minot Catholic Schools in 2011 where he was a standout athlete and scholar. He was recruited to play football at Minot State University where he attended for one year, but a different kind of “field” tugged at his heart.
John transferred to Montana State University in Bozeman, where he graduated in 2016. Over the past decade, John has worked in various wildlife management capacities. Ultimately, the call of the wilderness and his zest for adventure led him to his dream job in Alaska. Fishing lines cast into icy rivers, the peace and stillness of a morning sunrise, and the thrill of a wildlife sighting are what truly lit a fire in John’s heart.
John carved his own path in life. He turned his passion for wildlife into a meaningful career in wildlife biology— a career he both loved and was proud of. From the windswept plains of Montana to the rugged wilderness of Alaska, John left a positive impact wherever he went. He was a steward of the land, a protector of wildlife, and a friend to all who shared his passion for the outdoors.
With a big personality, a gregarious laugh, and a quick wit, John made lasting impressions. Whether he was racing a snow machine across frozen landscapes, camping in subzero temperatures, or calling home to share details of his job and most recent project with his family, John lived every day with passion and curiosity. His birth brought us unimaginable joy, and his passing has left us with unfathomable grief.
John’s love for the wilderness was matched only by his love for the people in his life. His family and friends were so important to him. He had a special bond with his sister, Sydney. They shared a unique understanding of one another. She often commented she was the only one who truly understood him and he her.
John is survived by his parents, Jay and Denise; his sister, Sydney and her husband, Matt Yale; his beloved nieces and nephews, Grant Christen, and Pippen and Della Yale. He is also survived by his grandmothers, LaRae McDonald and Phyllis Landsiedel; his aunts and uncles, Pat Landsiedel, Chris (Tim) Kramer, Tom (Andrea) Landsiedel, Michelle (Curt) Saari, Doug (Kolette) McDonald, his adored partner, Jess Dahlberg, many cherished cousins and countless friends across the country, and last but not least, his loyal dog, Mud.
John was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Jim McDonald and John Landsiedel III; his aunt, Renae McDonald; and several other extended family members, and recently his constant companion, and beloved dog, Trigger.
John leaves behind not just precious memories, but inspiration and a reminder to each of us to do whatever sets your soul ablaze, to live boldly and love fiercely.
John’s boots may be still, but his spirit roams free— forever a part of this land he loved so much.
John’s family would like to extend our deepest appreciation to our family and friends who have embraced us and supported us with your love and prayers during this difficult time. We would also like to thank John’s Alaskan family who welcomed him when we were so far away. We will be forever grateful for their love and care for John.
Mass of Christian Burial: Will take place at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, Minot, ND, at a time and date to be determined.
Burial: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot, ND.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Wildsheep Foundation Alaska Chapter (akwildsheep.org) with special designation for Aviation scholarship or the donors’ choice.
The service will be livestreamed for the public to view and can be accessed by going to Thompson-Larson Funeral Home’s YouTube channel at
