John R. Marshall's Obituary
John Robert Marshall, age 89, passed away Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Grand Rapids, MI. He was born June 11, 1935, in Chicago, IL, to John Vincent and Bernice Ellen (McCarthy) Marshall. John proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and later spent many years working as a mold technician. He married Lillian Balasa on August 29, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois. She passed away in 1989. John was a devoted member of St. Catherine Catholic Church in Ravenna, Michigan. SURVIVORS include his son, Joseph (Lori) Marshall of Boston, Massachusetts; two daughters: Debra Lee of Grand Rapids and Donna (Mark) Phillips of Ravenna; eight grandchildren: Andrew Phillips, Nathan Phillips, Paul (Rachel) Phillips, Alisa Phillips, Daniel (Maria) Phillips, Christina (Jason) Karel, Luke Marshall, and Tyler Marshall; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Robert “Robbie” Marshall; and three sisters: Carole, Lee, and Sheri. A memorial mass will be celebrated for John 11:00 AM on Monday, June 16, 2025, at St. Catherine Catholic Church. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place in St. Catherine’s Cemetery along with full military honors performed by the Ravenna American Legion Post 297 honor guard. MEMORIALS to the American Cancer Society will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451 (231) 853-6511
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