John Calvin Woodard

John Calvin Woodard Age 95, August 10, 2021 Loving father of Joanne Humphrey, Gary, and Karen (Tom) Ferguson; proud grandfather of Steve (Jenn) Humphrey, Laura (Dave) Gargalino, Andrew, and Ben (Vanessa); adoring great-grandfather to Sam Humphrey and Viola Woodard and uncle to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by Dorothy, his beloved wife of 63 years, his parents and siblings, Bob and Ruth.

Born in 1926 in Detroit, John spent summers at Camp Chikopi in northern Ontario, first as a camper and later as a counselor. He became an avid U of M fan, being instructed by their top coaches while at the camp. Upon turning 18, John enlisted in the navy in 1944, serving two years in the Pacific as radioman onboard the USS Phobos, earning multiple commendations.

Following the war, he became a radio engineer for stations in Detroit and Port Huron, and chief engineer for WKMF in Flint. John married Dorothy Utich in 1953 and eventually moved the family to Grosse Pointe where they resided for 50 years. Attending night classes, he earned a business degree from the University of Detroit and had a second career as an administrator with Blue Cross.

In his free time, John enjoyed swimming, sailing, golf with friends, and indulged his passion for reading and furniture making. He will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and his independence, as well as his keen intellect and sense of humor.

Memorial visitation Sunday, September 12 noon until Memorial Service 2 p.m. at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave. GPW. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army.