John Edward Foust's Obituary
Big Rapids - John Edward Foust, 91, of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, June 8, 2023, at Mission Point of Big Rapids.
He was born and raised in Big Rapids, the son of Willard and Anna (Zimmer) Foust. John was the oldest of eleven children. After graduating from Big Rapids High School in 1950, John joined the Air Force and was stationed in San Antonio, TX. Barbara Middleton joined him, and they were married there.
After the service, they returned to Big Rapids where he worked and raised their family. John retired from Michigan Consolidated Gas Company in 1992. He was a member of the National Guard for 20 years, retiring at the rank of Captain. John was a former president of the Lions Club and the Big Rapids Alumni Association. He volunteered at many organizations. In his younger years John was on the sidelines at the local football games as part of "The Chain Gang". He enjoyed woodworking, golfing, and traveling.
John is survived by his wife Barbara; son Michael; daughters Teri and Pat (David) Waters; two grandchildren, Tim (Jeannie) Waters and Julie Foust; three great granddaughters, Kaelyn, Emma, and Rosalie Waters; his siblings, Ann (Frank) Johnson, Frank (April) Foust, and Don (Jane) Foust; sisters-in-law Joyce Foust, Sharon Foust, Sharon Foust, Diane Foust, and Irma Middleton; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Willard, Kenneth, Theresa, Richard, Roy, Charles, and infant sister Barbara Foust, his in-laws, James and Viola Middleton, Harry Middleton, and Pauline Hicks.
Per John's request there will be no service, but there will be a gathering of family and friends at a later date. He will be laid to rest in Pine Plains Cemetery in Colfax Township. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for the BRHS Alumni Association (as he was one of the founding fathers) or a charity of your choice. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?