John W. Semashko, age 76, of 557 North 15th Street, Gladstone, passed away on Wednesday morning, October 29th, 2008, at the Christian Park Village in Escanaba.
John was born October 7th, 1932 in Gladstone, the son of Peter and Barbara (Rodman) Semashko and lived at home all his life.
John was a kind hearted and a trustworthy individual and he was honored with the responsibility of raising and lowering the flag at the United States Post Office in Gladstone. In earlier years, John worked at the Gladstone Bakery and handled the flashlight at the local theater. In addition, he enjoyed being around people, especially playing with children, and he also took pleasure in riding his bike, going to church, and watching John Wayne movies. John was also an avid Packer fan. Being a lifelong member of All Saints Church, he was proud to have been an usher for many years.
Survivors include;
3 brothers: Peter Semashko of Grand Rapids, MI; Richard (Judy) Semashko of Gladstone; Robert Semashko of Gladstone
1 sister: Barbara (Jim) Schram of Iron River, MI
Sister-in-law: Norma Semashko of Dryden, MI
Numerous nieces and nephews
John was preceded in death by his father, Peter in 1987, mother, Barbara, in 2003, and his brother, Francis in 1987.
John
Anonymous
My deepest sympathies to the Semashko family. I have many wonderful memories of “Johnny”. He worked at the Gladstone Bakery with my Dad for most of my childhood. John was a hard worker and a very sweet man with a big heart. I can remember times when he would come for a ride with our family or join us to watch the bakery’s softball team play at the park or to a basketball game at the Gladstone gym. I also remember how my Dad would tease John at work and he would get so wound-up. John would always tease him back and they remained good friends. My Mom always tells the story of how they had a twin mattress in the back of a station wagon one time. Johnny asked why the mattress was in the car. My Dad replied, “that’s so me & you can go pick up some cheerleaders after work”. John really laughed when this was said in front of my Mom. Later in the afternoon, the mattress was taken out & put back on the bed. When John noticed it was gone, he laughed his hearty laugh, and told my Dad, “Ha Earl, Meda(Almeda)is mad at you! She made you take that mattress out! Now you can’t pick up cheerleaders!” He really got a kick out of that!
John was a good friend to my parents, and a special friend to my brother Steve, and myself. I wish that we would’ve kept in better contact with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all,
Sincerely,
Beth(Bricker)Doneau
Gladstone, MI
You have my deepest sympathy – You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Wendy (Walker)Summers
Manitowoc, WI
Rest in peace, Johnny.
Brian Peterson
Valley Village, CA