John Edward "Jack" Paggeot's Obituary
John Edward “Jack” Paggeot, 83, of Muskegon, MI, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025 at home, just as he wished.
Jack was born on December 3, 1941 in Muskegon to Laurence “Pat” Paggeot and Marion R. Michels (Grennell). Growing up in the White Lake area, he developed a love for business at a young age that stayed with him throughout life. Jack’s passion for success contributed to the advancement of many others as he openly shared his knowledge and experience to assist in the start and continuation of many “family” businesses in West Michigan. He started his career at Howmet Corporation and stayed with the aerospace industry for close to 30 years. Jack then ventured into Subway franchising and was one of the first to place a store in a gas station, which was the beginning of a new era in food service.
In retirement, Jack enjoyed living with his wife, Judy, and their animals on the “family compound”. He was an advocate in supporting his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in any endeavor they wished to pursue. Jack lived his life and encouraged us “to be willing to give of yourself for the betterment of others” and made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Outside of work and family, Jack loved the Detroit Lions and golfing. He looked forward to every football season and for many years would attend games in Detroit or somewhere across the country to watch them play. Win or lose, he was a “fanatic” for the Lions. During the off season, Jack could be found golfing not only on local courses, but anywhere in the US. He was proud of his hole-in-one and attempted to repeat it many times over. Jack enjoyed a good ball game and every golf outing. He made you laugh with his great one-liners and his dry sense of humor.
Jack is survived by Judy, his wife of 44 years; his children, Jack Paggeot Jr., Debbie (Dave) Bice, Larry Paggeot, Lindy (Bruno) Olechnowicz and Greg (Tina) Ericksen; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; brother, Rick (Sandy) Paggeot; sister, Sue (Gary) Babcock; step-siblings, Butch (Cathy) Grenell and Monna Sakura; sisters-in-law, Nancy Paggeot, Shirley Kurburski, Judy McClain, and Debra Grenell; brothers-in-law, Barney (Sue) Arendsen, Rick Briggs, Tom Briggs and Fred (Jerilyn) Briggs; many nieces, nephews and extended family that he cherished. Jack was preceded in death by many loved ones and is now reunited with them in Heaven. He will be deeply missed by his immediate family as the “chief of our tribe”.
Jack was a man of faith who lived life with hope and purpose. VISITATION will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. In honor of Jack’s love for the Detroit Lions, his family encourages you to wear your favorite Lions Gear (NO Bears junk allowed!). A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at the Dalton Campus of Bridge Bible Church located at 3777 Holton Rd., Muskegon, MI 49445. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend to share memories and a good story of how Jack made an impact on their life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Harbor Hospice of Muskegon or Bridge Bible Church in Jack’s name.
Judy would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the family and many, many friends for their kindness, care, and support during this time.
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?
