On June 27th, 2024, surrounded by family, Servando Luis Almaguer "J.R." peacefully started his journey to the Spirit World. Affectionately known by family and friends as "J.R. and Junior." J.R. is an enrolled member of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin. His Menominee name is "Naemaehkiw Awaehsaeh" Thunder Bear, and a Bear Clan member.

He was born March 7th, 1967, to Nelda (Kapishkowit) Goodman and Servando Lopez Almaguer, in Antigo, Wisconsin. Although born in Wisconsin, he spent his life in Minnesota. J.R. was an accomplished artist, carpenter and lifelong student. He not only excelled at art he loved music, wood carving, the outdoors/camping. He earned his GED, and continued his love for learning at H.H. Job Corps, then became a student at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and most recently signed up for classes at Minneapolis Community College.

When he was at his best, he loved fixing things and working with his hands. He was always willing to teach his nephews his trade. J.R. was very proud of his traditional Menominee ways, attending powwows and being a traditional dancer. He had the "gift of gab" and loved to joke around. He talked about his adventures and family so much that everyone who knew him knew he was a proud uncle, brother, nephew and son.

J.R. was a presence in South Minneapolis, making many friends and community connections. However, our dearest J.R. struggled immensely with his addictions to alcohol, incarcerations and mental health issues. He tried very hard to overcome all his emotional and physical pains, but his heart could not endure anymore. His huge laugh, overwhelming kindness and larger-than-life personality, will forever be missed.

J.R. is survived by his mother Nelda (Lee) Goodman, five sisters; Angeline (Allen Weitzel) Rainey, Sylvia Almaguer, Lucia (Raphael Boivin Sr.) Almaguer, Roxanne Mudd, Cheryl-leigh (Jack Auginash) Goodman, three brothers; Robert (Willette Greengrass) Mudd, Alexander (Ashley Nelson) Mudd, Lee Goodman Jr. Several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephew.

He was preceded in death by his father, Servando Lopez Almaguer, paternal grandmother Ysidra Lopez Botello, maternal grandmother Susan Menomin, maternal grandfather George Kechemow Kapishkowit, one brother Steven Almaguer, and other beloved family and friends.

Traditional services for J.R. will begin on Saturday June 29, 2024, at 2:00 pm at the Zoar Ceremonial Building and will continue through Sunday June 30, 2024, until the time of procession at 2:00 pm.