St. Cloud Mourns John Waseka, Restaurateur, Mentor, and Local Sports Legend

(KNSI) – The St. Cloud community is mourning the loss of John Waseka, a beloved businessman whose community involvement and athletic achievements made him a local legend.

Waseka, who owned and operated the Copper Lantern for more than four decades, built more than just a successful restaurant; he created a destination that drew visitors from across the state and became a cornerstone of the community.

According to the family, he was known for his gruff, straight-forward management style, and ran his establishment with what friends called an “iron fist” approach. But beneath that tough exterior, they say was a dedicated mentor who provided opportunities for youth and individuals seeking redemption. Former employees routinely returned decades later to reconnect with the man who had shaped their professional lives.

Waseka’s impact extended far beyond his restaurant’s walls. He devoted years of service to the Sauk Rapids community, including volunteering with the fire department and serving as a lifetime member of the Metro Lions Club.

Before his business success, Waseka earned recognition as a formidable athlete. He served as captain of the St. Cloud State University football team and was inducted into the hall of fame at Sauk Rapids High School, where he played quarterback. His softball prowess became the stuff of legend, with his home runs still the subject of news articles and stories told by opponents decades later.

In 1995, Waseka married Marla (Walz), and together they raised two daughters, Madison and Shae. In a testament to his business legacy, daughter Madison purchased the Copper Lantern in 2022 and has continued both as a business owner and mentor, following directly in her father’s footsteps.

A celebration of life will be held at Jack & Jim’s Food & Liquor in Duelm on Wednesday, November 26th, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. There will be a meal provided and spoken words at 4:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to honor Waseka by wearing camouflage, blaze orange, or Copper Lantern apparel.

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