John Milton Kelbel

John Milton Kelbel, aged 91, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025. Born on October 22, 1933, in Petoskey, Michigan, to John and Patricia Kelbel, John lived a life distinguished by intellectual vigor, unwavering integrity, and a profound commitment to both his family and his pursuits.

John graduated from Petoskey High School and subsequently pursued higher education at Aquinas College, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minor in botany. His educational foundation enabled him to embark on a remarkable career in the chemical coatings industry.

For many years, John served as the leader of the research and development laboratories at Guardsman Chemical Coating, where his ingenuity contributed to the development of numerous advanced furniture coatings. His technical expertise and professional dedication earned him national recognition, including the significant honor of being consulted to work on Air Force One—an achievement emblematic of his exceptional skill and the respect he commanded within his field.

On June 5, 1953, John married Marilyn Lois (Lynn) Brophy. Their 44 years of marriage exemplified a deep and enduring love, during which they raised five devoted children. Lynn, passed away on September 1, 1997, leaving behind cherished memories of a loving and fulfilling partnership.

In 1998, John discovered love once again, marrying Rosemary Klimowicz on November 13th. Together, they shared 26 joyous years, creating a life enriched by shared passions and family bonds. He was a devoted patriarch, greatly admired and loved by his five children, five step children, 30 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. His love for his family was selfless, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments and lives.

John was a man of varied talents and profound passions. A highly skilled golfer, he was recognized as an All-State Golfer during his high school years and competed at the collegiate level at Aquinas College, maintaining a plus handicap throughout his long golfing career. His love for the sport became a family tradition, passed down to his children and grandchildren through shared tournaments and experiences on the golf course.

Following his retirement, he dedicated himself to gardening, particularly specializing in the cultivation of roses. Together with his wife Rosemary, he nurtured an expansive rose garden comprising more than 225 rose bushes. His dedication to horticulture garnered accolades in numerous rose competitions, and he became a certified Rose Judge as a member of the American Rose Society – Grand Rapids Division.

In addition to his horticultural and sporting interests, John possessed extraordinary intellectual prowess. Gifted with a photographic memory, he excelled in games such as bridge and cribbage, earning a reputation as a formidable competitor. He also found joy in fishing, appreciating moments of serenity and connection with nature.

The life of John Kelbel is a testament to the power of dedication, intellect, and love. He profoundly touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him, whether through his professional achievements, his unwavering devotion to his family, or his enthusiasm for his many passions. His legacy endures in the hearts of his loved ones and in the vibrant roses he so lovingly cultivated.

John will be deeply missed and fondly remembered as a man of extraordinary character and distinction.

John life was distinguished by a steadfast commitment to his faith and an exceptional sense of humor. For 70 years, he faithfully served as a parishioner of St. Jude Parish in Grand Rapids, where he cultivated a profound spiritual connection and a strong sense of community. His dedication went beyond mere participation, as he actively contributed to the parish as a Eucharistic Minister, exemplifying a life devoted to service and faith.

John’s ability to bring joy and levity to those around him was equally noteworthy. He possessed a unique talent for crafting clever puns, which often elicited both smiles and lighthearted groans from his family and friends. His humor was a testament to his cheerful disposition and his remarkable ability to uncover joy in life’s simpler moments.

John was not only respected for his numerous achievements and diverse interests but also deeply cherished for the warmth, laughter, and love he shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered as a paragon of love, faith, and humor, whose enduring legacy continues to enrich the lives of those he touched. John will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

John was preceded in death by: first wife, Lynn L. (Brophy) Kelbel; parents, John and Patricia "Pat" (Ingold) Kelbel; siblings, Patricia Ryan, Beth Kelbel, and Ed Kelbel; and cousin - that was like a brother, Stephen Kelbel.

John is survived by: wife, Rosemary Kelbel; children, Dr. John Michael Kelbel (wife, Dianne), Kevin Kelbel (wife, Peggy) Tim Kelbel (wife, Laurie), Maureen Purcell, and Bridget Kalman (husband, Craig); step-children, Kathy Klimowicz, Pat Cashbaugh (husband, Dave), Paula Sheid (husband, Tom), Greg Klimowicz (wife, Kristi), and Phil Klimowicz (wife, Amy); 30 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; brother, Bill Kelbel (wife, Margaret); special cousin-in-law, Shelby Kelbel; as well as, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Reyers North Valley Chapel (2815 Fuller Ave Ne, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 ), with a Rosary service beginning at 8:00pm. The following day, Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 11:00 am a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Jude Catholic Parish 1120 4 Mile Rd NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525. The family will welcome guests one hour prior to the start of Mass. John will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery: West in Grand Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Catholic Church of Grand Rapids or St. Jude Children's Hospital.