John Rummel

December 8, 1929 – July 3, 2025

“Captain Chrome,” “Big John,” “JR”

John Rummel sailed away, in peace and comfort, at the age of 95 — just three days after sharing a beer and a Tigers game with his son, Eric. Known for his kindness, generosity, and fun-loving spirit, John left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John is survived by his wife, Jocelyn Buckingham; son, Eric Rummel (Christi); grandson, Mark J. Rummel; daughter, Peggy Baldwin; granddaughters Leah Bird (David), Paula Miller, Cori Duff (Jim); and several great-grandchildren.

A lifelong sailor, John competed in 49 Port Huron-to-Mackinac Yacht Races and 19 Chicago-to-Mackinac Races. He first raced the Mackinac at age 15 in 1945 aboard the Manitou—a race legendary for its ferocity. The Detroit Times headline read, “Manitou Feared Sunk.” But Manitou not only survived, she placed second, one of just five boats to finish out of 56.

In 1947, John was awarded a full scholarship to Hillsdale College. He went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

An enterprising businessman, John opened his first used car lot in 1963. By 1965, he became the youngest General Motors dealer in the country when he founded John Rummel Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC Truck in Mt. Clemens. Together with his wife Louise, he designed the “Opera Coupe,” which went into production in 1976. John was also among the first DeLorean dealers and sold the very first DeLorean delivered to his dealership to Gordie of ABC Warehouse.

John’s sailing triumphs continued late into life. In 2004, he and his crew aboard Majic Star claimed both first in class and first overall in the Bayview Mackinac Race and the DRYA series.

He was preceded in death by his father Eugene, mother Emmy, stepfather Robert Bose, wives Louise and Adriene, son Mark, daughter Dolores, and two granddaughters.

John’s life was a masterclass in resilience, adventure, and heart. May fair winds and calm seas be with him.

A memorial gathering for John will be held Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at A. H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236. A celebration of life will occur Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236. A memorial service will occur Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Saint James Lutheran Church, 170 McMillan Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.