John Southwick

John Howard Southwick, age 70, passed away in his home on March 28, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones. Born on July 1, 1952 to John Robert DeRoo and Lorette DeRoo (Krussel); he was adopted by George H and Marion H Southwick who loved him, and cared for him at their farmhouse in Rockford. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Marcia, of 38 years, his children Joe (Sara), Rachelle, Katrina, grandchildren, Jason, Ashleigh, David James, and the Wojciakowski family (who he thought of as his own). He was greeted in heaven by his parents, daughter Amanda, other close family and friends, and his beloved man's best friends. John spent 40 years in Newaygo building his "empire" where he raised a family, the highest quality livestock, and took pride in growing the finest gardens. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was "The rock of the family", strong, compassionate and supportive to those he knew. He was a knowledgeable man of the woods. He could spot every mushroom and name every tree. He was passionate about everything he did, including his life's work in the timber industry. He loved to hunt and fish and spend time in the great outdoors. John had a great sense of humor and was so personable. Just standing in line at the grocery store he had the ability to make a stranger's day with small talk and a smile . He truly impacted the lives of everyone he met. Rest in peace. We will always keep his memories in our hearts. Special thanks to: Spectrum Health Hospice, Devereaux Sawmill, family and friends, for your support and thoughtfulness during this difficult time. His wishes were not to mourn but to celebrate his life. Please Join us in Celebrating John's life on May 21, 2023, from 1-4pm, at 12569 Podunk Rd NE, Greenville. Please Join us in Celebrating John's life on May 21, 2023, from 1-4pm, at 12569 Podunk Rd NE, Greenville. www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen's Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638, exclusive providers of Veterans Funeral Care. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Southwick, please visit our flower store.