John E. Wilhelm's Obituary
John E. Wilhelm, age 73, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 12, 1946 to Frank and Mary (Combs) Wilhelm in Muskegon, MI and has lived here most of his life. He was a proud veteran, serving his country in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. He dedicated 30 years to Sealed Power where he worked as a machine operator. On April 2, 1966 he married the love of his life, the former Linda Stokes in Grand Forks, North Dakota; together they cherished 53 years of marriage. John was an outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing. He was known for his handiwork and never saying no to anyone. He was what many would call a “John” of all trades. Above all things, he loved his family and friends. He will always be remembered for being the world’s best grandpa and his ability to make people laugh. He will be missed by all that knew him. He is survived by his wife, Linda Wilhelm; 4 children, Tammy (Sunil Kumar) Wilhelm, Rick Wilhelm, Anthony Wilhelm and Melanie Wilhelm; 11 grandchildren, Caitlyn, Justin, Casandra, Samantha, Gabriel, Kristina, Ricky Jr., Scott, Ajani, Michael, and Mikayla; and 2 sisters, Wilma and Betty. He is preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Bernice, Ester, and Janet; and 5 brothers, Joe, Kenneth, Frank, Jack, and Albert. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00PM on Monday, January 6, 2020 at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 4725 Russell Rd., North Muskegon, MI 49445. A luncheon with the family will take place after the service from 2-4:00PM. Arrangements entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Cremation & Funeral Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Please visit the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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