John E. Alworden, 83, of 9180 Bayshore Drive, Gladstone, (Kipling Location), passed away Wednesday October 11, 2017 at the Bishop Noa Home in Escanaba where he currently was residing.
John was born April 15, 1934 in Gladstone, the son of Clyde and Mary (Lancrete) Alworden. He was raised in Gladstone where he was a 1952 graduate of Gladstone High School. Following graduation, John served his country in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge in 1955 he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Army of Occupation (Germany) ribbon. He returned to Gladstone where he worked for the Soo Line Railroad for 9 years.
John was united in marriage to the former Patricia Kalishek on June 22, 1957 in Gladstone. John, along with his brothers-in-law built the family home in Kipling where John and Patricia raised their 6 children. John retired from Mead Paper Company in 1996 where he worked as a boiler operator.
In addition to his wife of 60 years, Patricia, survivors include:
Children:
Mike (Traci) Alworden of Gladstone
Mary (Gary) Moore of Rapid River
Mark Alworden of Escanaba
Patrick (Laurie) Alworden of Gladstone
Steven (Angela) Alworden of Saginaw, MI
Greg (Heather) Alworden of Gladstone
14 grandchildren:
Justin (Erin) Jamie, Tim, Erin, Gary (Maggie), Jonny, Christina (Alex), Zach, Haylee (Alex) Serena, Trent, Cole, Caden and Casey
5 great grandchildren:
Zoie, Gavin, Payten, Cassidy and George
Numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law
Many nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
In addition to his parents, his brother Raymond preceded John in death.
John loved his family and he especially enjoyed spending time with them. Many hours were spent at the family camp and the grandchildren’s sporting events. His hobbies included going to camp, hunting and traveling.
John’s family will receive friends on Monday October 16, 2017 from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 5:30 PM at the All Saints Catholic Church in Gladstone with Rev. Fr. Brian Gerber officiating. Luncheon will follow in the All Saints Church Parish Hall. Burial will be in the Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone. Memorial contributions may be directed to All Saints Catholic Church or St. Vincent DePaul.
Theresa Moss - Cocoa, Fl
So very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
Chuck & Laura Lancrete - Richfield, MN
To Johns Family:
We were saddened to hear of my cousin John’s passing. Over the past several years on my annual trip to Gladstone I would stop to spend time with John. This past year however I missed my visit with him.
John was very proud of his family and grandchildren and most of our conversations were about his family’s activities. I know he spent a great deal of time watching both his children and grandchildren at the ballparks.
Dianne (Poe) LaChance - Perkins , MI
So many memories as a Kipling kid around the Alworden area. Prayers to your families.
Mary Ann Vito - Rochester Hills, Mi
Dear Patsy and all the Alworden kids and grands, John will always be a very important part of your lives and days. He has given so many fabulous memories to each and along with his sweet, ready smiles led by example for all. We are not able to honor John at his memorial, however we will be with you in spirit. Keeping you all in our prayers and hearts.
Mike and Mary Ann Vito
Virginia Alworden - Cadillac, MI
To Johns family.We only met him and Pat one time,they both seemed like great people.He was my husbands 2nd or 3rd cousin,his grandpa Henry was my husbands uncle.So sorry for your lose our thought and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Cheryl Bernard - DeTour Village, MI
Just wanted to let the world know, what we his family, know about John. He was truly a great man. His faith, strength, love for Pat & his family, is unsurpassed! His wit & sense of humor, was definitely a close second. 🙂 He was the epitome of what a good husband, father & friend should be. We will all miss him, so much! Rest in peace, John.
With Love, *Grub* 🙂