John Edward Wavrick Jr.

John E. Wavrick, Jr., age 95, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and loyal friend, John leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and service that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, John spent his formative years there and proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1946. He attended Detroit Catholic Central High School and later graduated from Michigan State University, where he was an enthusiastic and lifelong brother of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.

Following his graduation, John served honorably in the United States Army with the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He began his professional career as an Executive Recruiter with J.L. Hudson Department Stores in Detroit before relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he went on to serve as Senior Vice President of Human Resources at J.B. Ivey’s. Throughout his distinguished career, John was known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and genuine care for others. Even after retirement, his desire to stay active and connected led him to work full time as a porter at Hendrick Honda in Charlotte until the age of 88.

Above all, John was a devoted family man. He treasured time with his wife and children and was always present with guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support often accompanied by a shared glass of wine or three.

John had a lifelong passion for golf and was a longtime member of Carmel Country Club. He played many of the Top 100 golf courses in the United States and particularly cherished traveling to Scotland, including memorable rounds at St. Andrews.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his children, Catherine, Susan, Elizabeth (Tim), John III (Tami), and Chrissy; his grandson, Taylor (Molly); his honorary granddaughter, Catherine (Lonnie); his nieces, Lorna, Sandy, Jane, and Julie; and sister-in-law, Kristine

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Jane; his brother, James; his daughter, Carolyn; his brother in-law, Raymond, sister-in-law Virginia; and his niece Debbie.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Novant Hospice in Ballantyne for their compassionate care and kindness.

John’s memory will be forever cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Detroit Catholic Central High School, 27225 Wixom Road, Novi, MI 48374.