East Lansing, Michigan
Born April 6, 1935 to Wilson and Greta Dalzell, passed away after a long illness on October 30, 2012 at the age of 77. John grew up in Ionia and attended Ionia High School. He was a graduate of Albion College, attended U of M and received his Ph.D. in Philosophy and Zoology in 1967 from Michigan State University. He also served in the U.S. Army. John retired from Auto Owners Insurance where he worked for over 20 years as Director of Employee Benefits in the Personnel Dept. He served as Chairman of the Biology Dept at Adrian College. He was also a MSU Researcher in the Neurophysiology Department.
John was an avid nature lover and scientist. As a young man he was an Eagle Scout. John loved hiking, Northern Michigan, and walking Lake Michigan. He was a quiet, deep thinker, a gentleman and he greatly touched all that met him. John was also a musician, an avid reader and gardener. He was a life member of the Nature Conservancy.
John was survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara; daughters, Elizabeth Dalzell and Kathleen (Dwayne) Harrigan; grandchildren, Hayden, Renee and Nolan Harrigan; brothers, Dr. Daniel (Glendyl) and Thomas (Mary Lil) Dalzell and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held Saturday, November 3, 11:00 a.m. at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1315 Abbot Rd, East Lansing with Rev. Margie L. Osborn, officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E Grand River Ave, East Lansing and one hour prior at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to The Nature Conservancy, 101 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906On line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com
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