John Bernard Czarnecki

John was born on August 20, 1946, in Hamtramck, Michigan. He graduated from Detroit Catholic High School and went on to earn his degree from Michigan State University, where he was a proud member of Delta Sigma Chi fraternity. After a brief time living in Wyoming, John returned to the Lansing area, where he met Patricia Vanderver in 1971. They were married for 49 years.

John dedicated his professional life to community and economic development, serving the people of Michigan through his work with the Department of Commerce, the Michigan Jobs Commission, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He concluded his distinguished career as the first Chief Executive Officer of the Clinton County Economic Alliance, retiring after decades of service aimed at strengthening communities and creating opportunity.

A devoted public servant, John also gave his time generously in the elected office. He served on the East Lansing City Council from 1975 to 1983, ending with a term as Mayor from 1983 to 1987. From 1993 to 2002, he served on the Ingham County Commission for District 7, including his last year as Board Chair. He ended his public service on the Ingham County Parks Commission from 2004 to 2017. His leadership was marked by integrity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the public good.

A lifelong and devoted Catholic, John was a faithful member of St. John’s Student Parish. He was active with the Knights of Columbus and was a familiar and friendly face volunteering at the parish’s Lenten fish fries.

John found great joy in racquetball, tennis, regular card games with friends, and traveling with Patricia. After taking up golf in his 50s, his proud moment was a hole-in-one in 2015. Above all, he cherished time with his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Vanderver); his children, Katharine (Marc Merritt) and Nicholas Czarnecki; and his granddaughters, Wynter and Arden Merritt, who were the light of his life.

A celebration of life with family and friends is being planned for early 2026.

In lieu of flowers, friends of the family are encouraged to consider donations in John’s memory to the American Cancer Society.