John Edward Petruska

John Edward Petruska, 59, of Kent City, Michigan, was welcomed Home into Heaven on August 22, 2026. Following a difficult battle with cancer—which he fiercely fought with unmatched strength and courage—he passed away peacefully, surrounded by love as God held his hand in his final moments on earth. A beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, John will be remembered for his deep love of family, his passion for fishing, and his unwavering commitment to serving others.

The youngest of five children, John was born on September 10, 1966 to Michael and Marjorie Petruska. He spent his youth on the small-town streets of Casnovia, filled with neighborhood basketball and baseball games that lasted until dinner time. It was during his high school years that brought John his greatest blessing; meeting the love of his life, Julie Kay Austin. A proud graduate of Kent City’s Class of 1984, John went on to study business and marketing at Grand Valley State University. Eager to build a future together, John and Julie officially began their marriage on June 24, 1989. Sharing over 37 beautiful years, they built a life filled with love and laughter, raising their children in their hometown.

A man of many talents, John built a career centered around his love for people. His working days began in management at Houseman’s grocery stores, where he genuinely looked forward to greeting and assisting his regular weekly customers. John later became a local business owner, successfully operating Circle A Furniture in downtown Sparta. Later, he transitioned to Frito-Lay as a route sales manager; a role where his outgoing personality shined as he made fast friends at every store he delivered.

Known for his quick wit and unmatched zest for life, John was generous with his time and resources to everyone around him. He naturally saw the good in people and embraced the value of community service from a young age. John dedicated years of leadership as the President of the Village of Kent City Council, helping to organize favored community traditions including Fall Festival, Santa Day, Easter Egg Hunt, and Kent City Community Carnival. These vibrant family events collectively joined the whole town with parades, truck pulls, and overflowing plastic eggs stuffed with sugary candy.

His spirit of service extended to the KCHS Sports Boosters, where he could frequently be found grilling burgers and hotdogs for track meets and football games. A thoroughly dependable man, John’s favorite escape was his home-away-from-home on Lake Margrethe in Grayling. There, he helped manage the lake association by planning potlucks and working alongside his sons to install and remove docks and boats. When John wasn’t busy serving others, he could be found fishing for 'the big one'—or at least attempting to catch enough for a delicious fish fry.

Living life to the fullest, John found joy in Michigan Football, the Detroit Lions, Tiger Baseball, listening to Bob Seger and The Eagles, fishing on Lake Margrethe, and cracking open a crisp cold Coke. Sharing these moments with others brought him deep happiness, a gift he cherished even more after his diagnosis. John's true legacy, however, was his dedication to family. He held extreme pride in his children and their accomplishments, and found his greatest fulfillment in being a Papa to his grandchildren. His most treasured times were spent gathered around the family dinner table with his wife and kids, laughing, sharing stories, and expressing his unconditional love—never missing an opportunity to say, 'I love you.'

John was preceded in death by his parents, the late Michael and Marjorie (Grooters) Petruska, his son Jared, sister Barb Wallington, nephew Adam Petruska, and father-in-law John Austin. His legacy is survived by his children Jordan (Calli), Lauren, Braden (Lexi LaChappa), Breegan (Braxton), and Landen; grandchildren Hannah, Evan, and Carter; siblings Mike, Chris (Ron) Koopman, and Steve (Deb); mother-in-law Marge Austin; brother-in-law Mike Austin (Tina Cox); nieces and nephews Kim Clark, Kevin Koopman, Kurt Koopman, Eric Petruska, Ryan Petruska, Ally Austin, Ashley Zevenbergen; along with many extended family members and countless others who were touched by his kindness and considered John a friend.

With profound gratitude, the family thanks everyone who offered support and encouragement during John’s painful fight with cancer. To honor him, family and friends are warmly invited to a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Apple Valley Events at Sunset Ridge. Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by a service at 12:15 p.m. A luncheon will follow. In accordance with John’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Please consider a contribution to cover outstanding medical bills via the family’s GoFundMe “Standing with John Petruska in His Cancer Battle” page, or making a donation to Kids’ Food Basket.

John lived an incredibly humble life with honesty and compassion, always choosing to lead by example. To be loved by John was to feel it completely through his selfless hugs, firm handshakes, and contagious smiles. While his physical presence is missed, he will forever live on through the lessons he taught and the numerous lives he touched. In honor of John’s unselfish spirit, remember his repeated rule whenever grouped together: 'If you go home hungry, it’s your own fault!'

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign John's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.