John Brown

John T. Brown, 77, of Bellaire, passed away October 9, 2019, at his home, in Bellaire, following a 2 1/2 year courageous fight with cancer. He was a great man, an even better father, a loving husband, and beloved Grampie.  He was a man of strong faith and always put God first and then his family.  His family meant the world to him.  He will be missed more than words can be expressed.

John was born March 12, 1942, in Flint Michigan, to William J. Brown and Helma F. (Robertson) Brown.  John served proudly in the United States Army, for two years and was a Vietnam Veteran. He then continued his education by receiving a Bachelor's Degree from Ferris State University and a Masters from Eastern Michigan University. He was an Administrator at Baker College, for 32 years.

John loved spending time with family at their Lake House, in Bellaire.  His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he loved playing with them.  He enjoyed golfing and many other activities, with his Florida friends.

On June 13th, 1970, in Burton, MI,  John married Mary E. Barkman, who survives. Also surviving him are two sons, Brian(Toni) Brown of Bourbonnais, IL, and Jason(Larisa) Brown of Goodrich, MI, seven grandchildren, Leigha, Rosie, Serenity, Austin, Braden, Layla, and Jayce.  One sister Kathy(Robert) Merinsky, six brother in laws, David(JoAnn) Barkman, Russell(Sandra)Barkman, Leslie(Linda) Barkman, Doug Barkman, Michael(Teresa) Barkman, and Mark(Renee) Barkman, along with many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Richfield Church of the Nazarene, 7524 E. Mt. Morris Rd, Otisville, MI 48463, November 9, 2019, with Pastor Allen Duce officiating.  Visitation at the church from 10am. to 11 am.,Memorial Service at 11.  There will be another memorial service held in Florida in early January.

The family has requested that no flowers be sent, but donations made to the following organizations in honor of John: Memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 97251 Washington, DC 20090-7251 and Love Sews Ministry, 2472 Sawtooth Ct. Holland, MI 49424

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes,  Sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com