John Edward Weir

John Edward Weir (AKA John Borkowski or “Birdie” to his mates)

“John was a man of generous heart—guiding siblings, loving family, cherishing the outdoors, and offering friendship as naturally as breathing. To me, he was the best partner a life could hold.”— Nancy Pochron

John was born on February 27, 1952, in Frankfort, Michigan, to Anne Joyce (AJ) MacDonald and Richard (Dick) Eugene Weir. His father, Dick, tragically perished in a fishing accident on Crystal Lake later that same year, on November 2, 1952. In time, AJ remarried, and with John and his big sister, Ellen, relocated to the John Ball Park neighborhood of Grand Rapids. There, AJ and John’s stepfather, Albert (Al) Borkowski, expanded the family, blessing John with eight additional siblings.

Growing up on the West Side, John became a true “westsider” in every sense of the word. He formed lifelong friendships with Pat Fischer, Tom Grzesak, John “JR” Roys, Tim Scully, Mitri, CZ, and many others. He was affectionately known as “Birdie”, a nickname that followed him through the decades. John graduated from West Catholic High School in 1971, and in his forties started a journey to fulfill a long-held dream by earning his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Western Michigan University in 2005. He also served his country in the United States Air Force, spending time in Thailand during the Vietnam War. John worked for Trader Interactive as a Data Analyst for 14 years.

More than anything, John cherished the outdoors. He loved walking in the woods, fishing, mushroom hunting, and—of course—birding. He often referred to himself proudly as “Backwoods Weir,” a name that captured both his humor and his deep connection to nature.

Twenty-three years ago, John met his life partner, Nancy Pochron. Together they built a foundation of love, companionship, and shared adventure. They did everything side by side, including spending summers at their hideaway in Frankfort—John’s happiest place. In recent years, John and Nancy traveled to Rockport, Texas, enjoying winters along the Coastal Bend.

Family was the center of John’s world. He and his sister Ellen were the glue that held their large family together. He was a fatherly presence to Ellen’s children—Josh, Ben, Jordan, and Brooke—and an honorary paternal grandfather to Mark’s daughters, Clover and Magnolia. He treasured his special relationships with all his nieces and nephews and delighted in watching the family grow with great-nieces and great-nephews.

John passed away peacefully surrounded by love on August 12, 2026.

John is survived by his life partner, Nancy Pochron, and his cherished Scottish Terrier, Eilidh (A-lee). He leaves behind beloved memories for his nine siblings: Ellen MacDonald and Roger Stow; Albert Borkowski; Paul Borkowski and Brenda Sears; Carol Korreck; Joanie and Tom Swanson; Cathy Kelliher; Laura Startz; Mark and Karen Borkowski; and Annie and Walter Cox. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Ben and Nicole Bates; Jordan Bates and Aubrey Parker; Paul and Meredith Borkowski; Carrie Borkowski; Josh and Aleasha Sears; Daniel Sears and Rachel Kolenda; Shannon Stewart; Danielle Korreck and Larry; Tim Korreck and Leah; Michael Swanson and Tulip; Meredith Swanson and Aaron Lecomte; Matt and Jessica Kelliher; Thomas and Eller Kelliher; Kenny Startz; Ashton Startz; Nick Startz and Jordyn Castillano; Clover Borkowski; Magnolia Borkowski; Anna Sneed; and Samuel Cox. John took great joy in seeing the next generation grow, and he remained close to Nancy’s family, especially Mary Secondi.

John was preceded in death by his parents and by his cherished nephew and niece, Joshua and Brooke Bates.

Two celebrations of John’s life will be held—one in late September 2026, and another in Benzonia, Michigan, in the summer of 2027.

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.