John Carl Vella

John Carl Vella, 94 years old, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed from this life to eternal life on July 31, 2023.

He was born to the late Carl and Mary Vella on October 25, 1928 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He married the love of his life, Dorothy, on December 16, 1951 and they enjoyed almost 65 years of marriage together.

He graduated from Western Michigan University and worked for Consumers Energy for 31 years at different locations throughout Michigan. He was president of the Wonder Watts retirees’ group for 11 years. He has been a member of Faith Lutheran Church since 1976.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, and two of his sons, John Jr. and Jeffrey.

He is survived by his daughter, Terri (Gary) Wood and his son, Gregory (Beth Anne) Vella. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Lisa (Jason) McInerney and Philip (Suzanne) Irwin. John has 7 great-grandchildren, Ezra, Leo, Benmont, Corbin, Eisley, Alaina and Arden.

John enjoyed spending time with his family, and in younger years playing the ukulele, bowling, playing golf and dancing to Big Band music with Dorothy and their friends. John had a life-long love of aviation and took flying lessons. He was always a supportive, encouraging parent, grandparent and great-grandparent who enjoyed celebrating his loved one’s accomplishments. He was always a gentleman and was a jolly people person.

In accordance with John’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Erv Hutter. The family will be present to receive visitors at the church from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Military Honors will be taking place at Heavenly Rest Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. by the Bay County Veteran's and the United States Air Force, followed by the inurnment.

In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Home Office, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.