John D. McPherson III

John D. McPherson III was an honest, hardworking and compassionate man, who found immense happiness as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He had a creative streak and great sense of humor, many friends and countless hobbies. John strove to be the best man he could everyday, and because of this, he reaped the rewards of great friends and a family that loved him dearly.

The mid 1930s were the worst years of the Great Depression, when the economic crunch took a toll on everything from the largest factory to the smallest family. Though times were tough, hope shone through a new president who aimed to lift the country back onto the pedestal of greatness. John entered this world on December 23, 1935, in the city of Kalamazoo, Michigan to John D. and Madeline (Collignon) McPherson. Along with his sister, Joyce, John led a typical childhood of the time, growing up in a loving home in Kalamazoo. He received his education in the area schools, and played the Cornet in his high school marching band. After graduating from Kalamazoo Central in 1953, John followed the same patriotic calling of other young men of the time, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

After completing his military service, John returned home and found work at VanBochoves Greenhouses and later Sutherland Paper Mill. He eventually went to work for the U.S. Postal Service as Postmaster of the Portage Branch, and remained here for many years. During this time, John met the love of his life, Carol Vos, while at Flynn Superburger. The two began dating and their relationship quickly blossomed into true love. John and Carol were happily married at Zion Lutheran Church on September 20, 1957. The couple shared the next 53 years together, raising their two children, Kim and Kevin, and sharing many wonderful memories as a family. John was a very devoted father, always supporting his children in all their endeavors. He enjoyed coaching his son’s Little League team and being involved with Indian Guides, as well as attending all their school and sports events. In later years, John poured the same amount of love and attention into his relationships with his grandchildren Taylor, Daly, Max and Iain too; he enjoy every minute of their time together.

John loved his family dearly, and together he and Carol treasured the closeness they shared with their many good friends. Over the years, they enjoyed many summers with the neighborhood families, taking bike trips, and in the winter, they went ice skating on West Lake. Everyone looked forward to Carol and John’s annual New Year’s Eve gathering with the Renchs, Flemings and Duncans. The couple also had fun with their friends: Diana and John, Mike and Judy, and Mildred, as part of “The Hop” group, which “hopped” around to eat at a different restaurant each week together. However, every Saturday, like clock work, John and Carol would be at Burger King having dinner with Brian and Barb. John was said to be a bit sarcastic in nature, but in the end, his great sense of humor endeared everyone to him and he was a joy to be around.

John was in his early 40s when he started having health problems. So much so, that he retired from the Post Office at the age of 48. With the love and support of his family, John stayed strong and lived every day to its fullest. He and Carol enjoyed a daily game of cribbage, and John liked to pursue his artistic talents doing some sketching and painting. He was also a collector of stamps and coins, and loved to listen to music by Frank Sinatra. Above all though, John treasured every moment he spent in the company of his children and grandchildren, who he loved dearly. A short time ago, John’s health began to decline quickly, and he went to live at Kairos Dwelling, where he passed away on Friday, March 11, 2011, at the age of 75.

Although John will be deeply missed, his legacy of love and dedication leaves his loved ones with wonderful memories and a strong foundation to look to for comfort.

Visit with his family and friends on Monday, March 14, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Life Story Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (344-5600). A Funeral will be held on Monday at 2:00 p.m. at the same location.

John is survived by his wife, Carol; his children, Kim (Jim) Currie and Kevin (Jenni) McPherson; his grandchildren: Taylor, Daly & Max McPherson and Iain Currie; his sister, Joyce (George) Meyer; his brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law: Doc & Carol Vos, Art & Maureen Vos, Vonnie Vos, Mildred Vos, John & Diana Haskins and Marvin & Judy Cato; as well as many other relatives and friends. Please visit John’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where may share a memory, upload a photo and/or sign his online guest book before coming to the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Kairos Dwelling.