John Frederick Green

John Frederick Green, age 76, passed away Friday, March 22, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick James Green and Mary Louise Akers; son, Justin Elliott Green; and brothers Bill and Fred Green. John will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Bonnie J. Green; children Jared (Caitlin) Green and Jordan (Alissa Middendorf) Green; grandchildren Alison Green and Amelia Green; and siblings Steve Green, Susan Clark, and Bob Green. He will also be lovingly remembered by his foster daughter, Kassandra Hildebrant, and his foreign exchange daughter, Alessia Bongiorno of Italy.

Born in 1947, John was the oldest of six children. His passion for baseball was rivaled only by his thirst for adventure. He received his Eagle Scout award in 1964. His first job as a paperboy led to a lifelong career in the newspaper industry, first with The Kalamazoo Gazette where he met his wife, Bonnie, and eventually at The Grand Rapids Press before retiring at the age of 56. Along the way, he started a tax consulting business where he offered a friendly face and cheerful service in an industry which finds that all too seldom. More than anything, John loved sharing the places and experiences that meant the most to him with his family and friends. Growing up, his son Jared would spend hours collecting baseball cards with John, and playing catch on weekends while practicing for games. After retiring, John could not wait to return to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico with his son Jordan for a ten day backpacking trip, a challenging endeavor John had completed once already in his youth. John volunteered as an adult leader for over a decade with Hudsonville’s Boy Scout Troop 146, helping over 50 scouts earn their Eagle awards during that time. He also loved taking his family to Hilton Head Island and inviting friends to join whenever possible. In the end, perhaps, it was the simple pleasures he enjoyed sharing most, like road trips with his wife, no GPS allowed, and a meal out with his family for special occasions, or simply for no reason at all.

John’s celebration of life service will take place 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at Georgetown United Methodist Church in Jenison, MI (2766 Baldwin St.), with visitation one hour prior and luncheon to follow.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Georgetown United Methodist Church or to the Hudsonville Boy Scout Troop 146.

The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guest book.