John F. Bonsall's Obituary
Mr. John F. Bonsall, age 85, formerly of Muskegon, Michigan, passed away Monday, June 7, 2021 at his home in Okemos, Michigan. He was born in Reed City, Michigan on March 2, 1936 to Joseph and Violet (Kent) Bonsall. John was a veteran of the United States Army, serving overseas in Korea. He was a 60-year Mason and was Past Master of Muskegon Lodge #140, Past High Priest of Muskegon Royal Arch Chapter #47, Past Thrice Illustrious Master of Muskegon Council #54, Past Commander of Muskegon Commandery #22, Past Patron of Grand Haven/Spring Lake OES Chapter #132, a member of Michigan Priory #22 KYCH, The Valley of Grand Rapids A.A.S.R., and Saladin Shriners. He was most recently a member of Okemos Masonic Lodge #252. John received his Bachelor’s Degree from Ferris State University and received Master’s Degrees from Northern Michigan University and the University of Michigan. He was a teacher for 30 years prior to his retirement from Mona Shores School District in 1990. John enjoyed reading, traveling, and spending summers at the family cottage on Lake Michigan in Naubinway, Michigan. He was a member of First Congregational Church of Muskegon. On August 4, 1962, John married the former Lorretta Jean Wales in Albion, Michigan and she survives him along with their two children, Mary (Joseph) Martin and Joseph (Beth) Bonsall; two grandchildren, Dianna Martin and Kent Martin, one sister, Mary Jo (John) Groves; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David Bonsall. SERVICES will be 1:00 PM Monday, June 14, 2021 at First Congregational Church (1201 Jefferson St., Muskegon, MI 49441) with Rev. Tim Vander Haar officiating. VISITATION will be from 1-3 PM Sunday, June 13, 2021 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 and one hour prior to his service on Monday at church. Burial will take place in Woodland Cemetery, Reed City, Michigan. MEMORIALS in his memory may be directed to First Congregational Memorial Fund. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?

