

Born and raised in Grandville, Michigan, John was a Grandville High School graduate from the class of 1961. He began his career at Steelcase shortly after graduation before proudly serving his country from 1965-1967 as an Armor Crewman in the United States Army. Following his military service, John returned to Steelcase, where he dedicated 39 years of service before retiring. On June 1, 1968, John married the love of his life, Joan Boone, and had three children of whom they were both immensely proud.
John will be remembered most for the love he poured into his family. A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend, he found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He was happiest when working on a project, always keeping his hands busy and find a way to fix, build, or create just about anything. A true jack of all trades, John’s talents seemed endless, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.
He had a gift for storytelling, sharing memories and adventures that brought laughter, wisdom, and connection to those around him. Whether gathered around the kitchen table or meeting friends over a cup of coffee, John cherished conversation and spending time with those he loved. His stories and quick wit made every visit one to remember.
John’s legacy lives on not only in the many things he built and repaired, but also in the family and friends he cherished. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Joan; children Kelli (Tom) Ditmar, Amy (Lynn) VanSickle, and Jason (Gretchen) Vredevoogd; grandchildren Jordan (Kaylee) Miliusis, Chloe (Fernando) Davis, Mackenzie (Joseph) Lozon, Rogan VanSickle, Gabe VanSickle, and William Vredevoogd; great-grandchildren Deacon Miliusis and Freya Miliusis; brothers-in-law Ray Hartwell and Lynn Siebers; and sister-in-law, Linda Gerard. He is preceded in death by his parents Peter and Evelyn Vredevoogd; parents-in-law Larry and Jean Boone; siblings June (Walt) Woodhouse, Neva (Bob) Austin, Clare (Al) Cronheim, Lois Page, Bud Vredevoogd, Shirley Hartwell, Mickey Siebers, Harley Vredevoogd, Don (Sharon) Vredevoogd, Diane (Doc) Tilma; and brother-in-law, Lee Gerard.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hand2Hand ministries. Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A funeral service celebrating John’s life will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in John’s online guestbook.
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