John Robert Yarranton's Obituary
John Robert Yarranton, age 68, passed away at home with family on Friday, May 23, 2025, in Norton Shores, MI. He was born to Albert and Sandra (Ambrose) Yarranton on February 26, 1957, in Muskegon. MI. John was an entrepreneur and was known as the “The Shoeman”. John was a certified Pedorthist and started his career at Meijer Shoe Repair, under the mentorship of Bill Leventis. He then started his own business known as The Shoe Shop on Barclay St, which subsequently expanded into The Shoe Shop: West Michigan Pedorthics on Glade Street which continues to successfully operate today.
One of John’s passions was flying, which started back in the late 1970’s. John’s first plane was a tail dragger Super Cub which allowed him to fly advertising banners around Muskegon. John has owned several planes over the years, as well as belonging to the West Michigan Flying Club, but what he’s best known for is the famous bright yellow sea plane flying over the skies of Muskegon. He utilized his love of flying to teach others to fly as a Certified Flight Instructor, in addition to helping local charities raise money by offering free rides to raffle winners. Finally, John was also a member of several service organizations: Muskegon Elks, Eagles, American Legion, Moose Lodge and Vikings. John was also involved in Wings of Mercy and was a member of Mona Lake Boat Club. John also made regular donations to his favorite Rescue group, Noah Project. John had non-stop energy and had a deep passion for life. John always made himself available to help anyone for any reason without hesitation. He is survived by his wife, Kelli (Tromp) Yarranton; his children: Jason (Amanda) Yarranton, Dr. Jonathan (Mario Gonzales) Yarranton; stepson, Jesse (Alexis) Tromp; sister-in-law Angela (Jason) Bronold; grandchildren: Carter, Bentley, Bailey; brothers: Michael Yarranton, Thomas Yarranton; sisters: Kelly (John) Ribesky, Patti (Janice Prince) Yarranton and half-sister, Nanette (David) Madison and many other nieces and nephews which include his very special relationship with his cousins-sons (aka nephew-sons) : Trent, David and Gary Vanderstelt (deceased); as well as his beloved and loyal fur babies: Shadow and Millie, whom already miss him dearly.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Sandra Yarranton.
VISITATION will be Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI. 49444. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will take place following at 3:00 PM with a CELEBRATION OF LIFE at Paddy’s Pub / Bob Hi. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made in John’s honor to the Noah Project or Wings of Mercy. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com.
John Yarranton: “Jack of all trades, master of none. . . just enough to be dangerous”
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