John Raymond Wurster's Obituary
On February 14, 2023, John Raymond Wurster, passed away peacefully just twelve days shy of his 96th birthday.
Born February 26, 1927, in Ann Arbor, MI, he was welcomed by his parents Raymond and Mollie (London) Wurster and became the adored big brother of sisters, Barbara Jean and Mary Lou.
After attending Pioneer High School, he joined the Navy proudly serving his country from 1945-1947 in the aftermath of WWII. After he returned home, his cousin introduced him to his lifelong love, Kathryn Jeanne Luckhardt, of Saline. They married on May 6, 1950, and enjoyed over 72 years of marriage, and raising two daughters, Sue and Carol Jean.
John worked for the University of Michigan as an Instrument Maker (machinist) for the Engineering Department for over 32 years. He enjoyed the challenge of fixing and building all manner of things, a talent he honed throughout his life.
In 1970, they became members of Canadian Lakes staying in the campground while enjoying all the activities. Upon retirement, John and Kathryn built a house in CL and became permanent residents. John enjoyed the slower pace and made many friends with similar interests in boating, fishing, golfing, woodworking, and playing pool and euchre, He was also part of the Mobile Watch for many years. He enjoyed feeding and watching the many birds that visited his yard and amazed everyone with his talent for creating beautiful woodcarvings of birds.
John was devoted to God and was a member of the Lutheran church all his life. He served as usher, Elder and Trustee through the years. The most delightful service he provided, however, was dishing up his famous pancakes that fed the bodies and souls of his loving family and worship community. John was well-respected, a loyal, loving man of integrity and honor, leaving a legacy for his family and a great example to all who had the pleasure to know him.
John is survived by his beloved bride, Kathryn; daughters Sue Ann (Ronald) LaDuke, and Carol Jean (Marlan) Freeburg; grandchildren, Peter (Erin) LaDuke, Timothy LaDuke, Bethany (Lee) Heerspink, Nicholas Freeburg and Anthony (Marina) Freeburg, as well as four great-grandchildren; sister Mary Lou (James) Bancroft, brother-in-law Warren Fisher and sister-in-law Virginia Dabich; and nieces and a nephew.
John was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Barbara Jean Fisher.
A Memorial service will be held in John’s honor Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 11:00 am, at Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church, Mecosta, MI with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Thursday.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church. Envelopes will be available at the church.
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