BLACF Remembers John Sullivan

The Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation lost a great friend, philanthropist and community leader in September when John Sullivan passed away at the age of 85.

John was one of the key founders of the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation, a former member of both the Brainerd and CMCF Boards, and a current member of the Minnesota Real Estate Foundation board. He had a big heart and was a passionate leader for many causes.

A longtime Baxter resident and community volunteer, John was dedicated to giving back to his community. Sullivan served in a variety of capacities and had a special interest in community development. His volunteer activities included the Baxter School Board, Build Brainerd, Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning Board, the Brainerd/Baxter Trails Board, the Baxter Long Range Planning Commission, and Heritage Assembly of God in Baxter - just to name a few.

BLACF honored John in 2005 with its first Award in Philanthropy. Sullivan credited his parents for instilling in him the value of giving. As a young child, he would take food his mother made to homeless people.

A distinguished businessman, John took over his father's company, Navillus Land Co., and also owned Park Timber Lumber Co.

Read the Brainerd Dispatch story to learn more about his extensive contributions.