John Allan LaBatte age 79 , passed away in New Ulm MN on January 21, 2026.

He was born to Ravali and Muriel (Grant) on August 10 1946.  He graduated from Robbinsdale High School and served in the U.S. Army after graduation.   He worked in the computer field in the Metro area.  He moved to New Ulm Minnesota and established himself as a well-known historian of the Dakota War of 1862.  He shared his expertise by giving presentations to schools, libraries and historical societies and created a website to reach wider audiences.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Donald LaBatte.  He is survived by nephew Steve LaBatte and niece Amy LaBatte and many great nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by many cousins including Phil and Steve LaBatte of the East Coast.

Funeral arrangements at Fort Ridgely Cemetery are pending.