Jack Roger Bengtson

Jack Bengtson, age 80, of Grandville, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, Thursday, May 9, 2024. Jack was born in Ludington, Michigan to Roger and Jeanne Bengtson. He graduated from Ludington High School in 1962 and enlisted in the US Air Force. He was honorably discharged in 1966 and began his 37 year railroad career in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with what is now known as CSX Transportation, retiring as a Road Trainmaster in Grand Rapids in 2003.

Jack is survived by Judy (Mars) Bengtson, his loving wife of nearly 56 years. He is also survived by his children Beth (Scott) Morey and Ryan (Nicole) Bengtson; and their children Reece, Makenna, and Callan Morey and Holly and Addison Bengtson. Also surviving are his sister, Jill (Jerry) Nerheim; sisters-in-law Karen Bengtson and Wendy Medlin; and many nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jon Bengtson.

During his railroad career, Jack was a member of the United Transportation Union, serving as president and assistant local chairman. He was instrumental in starting a monthly food program for fellow railroad workers during a downturn in the industry and felt honored to serve on the board of West Michigan Gleaners, which would later become Feeding America West Michigan. He became a member of NARVRE, the national organization for railroad retirees, where he served as local unit president and a national area director. Jack was also a member of the planning commission for the City of Grandville and an active member of Grandville United Methodist Church.

Having grown up in Ludington, he loved being on or near water and enjoyed many years of boating with Judy and their family on Lake Michigan. Jack was known for his sense of humor, enjoyed many types of music and seemed to know a song that fit every occasion or situation. Any holiday, vacation, or event spent with his family brought him immense joy. He was the “fun grandpa," creating many longstanding and cherished traditions with his family, especially with the grandkids. He also loved attending their sporting events, choir and band concerts, swim meets, dance competitions, and many school activities.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Grandville United Methodist Church, 3140 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, with Pastor Ryan Wieland officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday, May 20 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, and one hour before the service at the church on Tuesday.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Grandville United Methodist Church or Feeding America West Michigan, 1950 Waldorf St. NW, Suite #10B, Grand Rapids, MI 49544. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.