John Samalik Sr.

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of John Henry Samalik Sr., who left us on October 13, 2024. Born on February 2, 1931, in Bay City, MI, John spent his life being a beacon of joy, laughter, and love for everyone fortunate enough to know him. A loving father, a funny storyteller, a compassionate friend, and a dedicated husband to his deceased wife Alyce, John's legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched. John was a man of many talents and interests. He was an Air Force veteran of the Korean War, and had a distinguished career with the Food & Drug Administration in Washington D.C. Even after his retirement, he continued to be a dedicated professional, always taking the time to share his vast knowledge and experiences with others. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus, where his compassionate nature and sense of humor were deeply appreciated. Outside of work, John found joy in a variety of hobbies. He was an avid reader, a golf enthusiast, a lover of music, and a gifted dancer. His love for life was infectious, and he had a unique way of making those around him feel special and loved. Although John moved several times throughout his life, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, to Sterling Heights, Michigan, to Plymouth, Michigan, and finally to Grand Rapids, Michigan, he always maintained a strong connection to his roots and his community. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vendel and Anna Samalik, his loving wife, Alyce, and his step son Clarence "Bucky" Hylton. He is survived by his son, John (Linda) Samalik Jr., who shares his father's love for life, laughter, and learning. Also surviving him are his step children, Todd (Betsey) Hylton, Donna Knight, and Susie Hylton. His grandchildren, John Samalik III, and Michael Samalik, and step grandchildren, Andrea Risk, Kyle Hylton, Shea McNew, Lyndsay Knight Kennedy, Willian Knight, Nicole Untaroiu, Todd Hylton II, and Brandan Hylton. As well as great-grandchild, Von Samalik, and step great-grandchildren, Austin Sisk, Alyssa Sisk, Bishop Knight, Fennec Knight, Riley McNew, Connor McNew, and Savannah Hylton. In the Book of Matthew, Jesus tells us, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). John was indeed pure in heart, and although we mourn his passing, we find comfort in the assurance that he is now at peace in God's loving presence. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project or the American Heart Association. (please click the links below to donate online) We encourage those who knew and loved John to share their memories and photos on his memorial page. Your stories and pictures will help keep his memory alive and provide comfort to all those mourning his loss. We are forever grateful for the love, laughter, and lessons that John brought into our lives. His spirit will always be a part of us and he'll live on through us remembering the fun we had with him. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Samalik Sr., please visit our flower store.