John Pierre Oplinus' Obituary
John Pierre Oplinus, 57, of Stanwood, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
He was born on January 3, 1969, in Mt. Clemens, MI, the son of Jean and Brenda (Tant)
Oplinus. He grew up in Evart, Michigan, where he attended school and enjoyed playing football.
John dedicated approximately 15 years of his career as a machinist with Exco Extrusion Dies. Before that he was an all-star paper carrier, with zero mistakes, delivering newspapers for the Detroit News and the Detroit Free Press. He even won an award and was honored at the Detroit Renaissance Center for being the best paper carrier in Macomb County. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did.
In his free time, John enjoyed watching football with a love for the Detroit Lions and the U of M Wolverines, working on our cars and Jeeps, and spending countless hours watching YouTube videos of car shows or just other guys doing automotive repairs and restorations. He especially loved classic muscle cars, with the 1970 Challenger being his favorite. John was known as a simple country boy with a kind heart. He was meticulous in everything he did, believing that everything had its place, and he was particular about keeping things just right. His generosity was unmatched, and he would gladly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. John was a huge Trump fan and enjoyed watching Fox News. He and Denece also loved watching Gordon Ramsey together.
Above all else, John treasured the time he spent with his family. They were the center of his life, and the memories they shared together will be cherished forever.
John is survived by his loving wife, Denece Oplinus; son, Justin Oplinus; daughter, Marti (Matt) Campagna; grandson, Johnathon Campagna; and a granddaughter expected soon. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathy (Clifford) Hunter and Dawn Oplinus; brothers, Sean and Mike Monahan; mother-in-law, Susan Fournier; aunt, Cheryl Gillard; father, Jean Oplinus; stepfather, John Monahan; his brothers-in-law, Charles and Sidney Gillard; nephews, Charles Gillard Jr. and Kenneth Oliver; and many other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his mother Brenda.
Big Rapids visitation for John will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, MI.
Macomb visitation for John will be held from 1-8 p.m., Sunday, July 26th at Hauss-Modetz Funeral Home in Macomb, MI.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Macomb, MI. John's family will greet friends beginning at 10 a.m.
John will be laid to rest at Christian Memorial Gardens West Cemetery in Rochester Hills, MI following the church service.
John will be remembered for his gentle spirit, generous heart, unwavering love for his family, and the kindness he showed to everyone fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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?