John Kazenko

John Kazenko, age 91, of Lansing, Michigan passed away on Friday, September 17, 2021. John was born December 8, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to Alexander and Grace (Seneca) Kazenko, and in 1932, the family moved to Mayville to begin farming. After serving in the Army during the Korean War, John attended Wolverine Trade School (now Pontiac Motors/GM training grounds) and then MSU, where he graduated in 1958 with a Civil Engineering Degree. He began working for the State of Michigan as a civil engineer, a career that would span 35 years. He was an expert on highways, bridges, and railways as he worked to develop the interstate highway system in Michigan. He oversaw the People Mover in Detroit, and his retirement projects included what's known as Woodside Golf Course in Lansing.

Outside of work, he planned and built housing developments, hunted, fished, and gardened more than one family could possibly enjoy, giving away as much as he could from his "farm". He loved traveling, especially to Singer Island, Florida, and any casino near and far. He enjoyed horse races and the Kentucky Derby every year.

John always had a project and his work ethic was second to none. He was still dreaming and planning, even to the end.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores; his brother, Peter Kazenko; and his sister, Anna Gillis.

He will be lovingly remembered by his three children, Katherine (Raymond) Shaw, John (Michelle) Kazenko, and Douglas (Terri) Kazenko; his grandchildren, Christopher (Amber) Shaw, Brittany (Justin) Schroeder, Jocelyn Kazenko, Anthony (fiancee Kailey Gauss), and Kaylee Guild; his great-grandchildren, Michael and Elizabeth Schroeder, and Carter and Ethan Shaw; and one brother, Edward (Rosemarie) Kazenko of Ocala, Florida.

A private interment will take place in Gunnisonville Cemetery in Lansing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sparrow Foundation for their excellent care of John and Dolores over the years. Friends and relatives are invited to plant a fruit tree in honor of John, to continue his love of gardening.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grlansing.com for the Kazenko family.