Most of Chaska’s early settlers opened shops, schools and churches to serve both the farmers of the surrounding Carver County area and the townspeople. Early religious life reflected the German heritage of those first citizens who in 1884 established the St. John’s Lutheran Church. Years later the congregation created the St. John’s Cemetery at 1853 Stoughton Ave. in Chaska. The cemetery is affiliated with the St. John’s Lutheran Church but operates as a separate entity with its own Board of Directors. The cemetery is comprised of almost 8 acres, some of which was acquired in 1920 with the balance purchased in 1950. The first official recorded burial at the cemetery took place July 23, 1921 for Astrea Erickson, age 27 who died as the result of an auto accident. There are approximately 1,500 grave sites in use or purchased, with ample expansion space available.
For the past century, this cemetery has held reverent space for the lives and legacies of those passed from St. John’s Lutheran Church. They came from all walks of life and now remember and reflect in ways that are uniquely personal to them. As a history keeper for the church, this cemetery honors its roots as a landmark cemetery in Chaska while reimagining its role in modern life for this church community.
At a time when cemeteries across the country are being challenged by disruptive market forces and major societal shifts, this cemetery continues to provide a vibrant and dynamic resting place for our members in Christ of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Gravesite Rules and Regulations
Management
This cemetery is managed by a Board of Directors (or Cemetery Committee) who are volunteers and members of St. John's Lutheran Church in Chaska. This board meets on as needed basis or when critical decisions are required. The cemetery grounds are maintained totally by volunteers during the spring, summer and fall periods.