John Russell Hedges was born on the last day of Janary 1944 to John and Jennie Hedges in Faribault, Minnesota. He was raised in Faribault, attending school there until he graduated in 1961.

After graduating from university, he returned to Faribault and worked in the Minnesota State Employment Office.

He was a gentle, yet private person, who preferred his home to outdoor activities. He was an avid reader, and guitar player.   - from obituary

 John died on April 18, 2019 in Faribault at the age of 75. He was buried at the Maple Lawn Cemetery.