John Francis Zaugra's Obituary
John Francis Zaugra, age 82, of Spring Lake passed away Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence. He was born July 5, 1941, in Waukegan, Illinois to John G. and Sylvia F. (Koncan) Zaugra. He married Susan “Sue” Mulloy on August 19, 1967, in Waukegan. She preceded him in death on December 15, 2007.
John received his master’s degree from Roosevelt university in Chicago and then his Doctorate Degree in education from the University of Montana. He served on the House of Delegates at the University of Montana. John worked as a counselor at Grand Valley State University for thirty-two years, retiring in 2012. He served at GVSU as President of Student Affairs, editor of the GVSU Journal for eight years, and has the John Zaugra Writing Award, named after him. He authored two books on career development and was instrumental in educational programs for immigrants wanting to be citizens.
He is lovingly remembered by two son, Christopher (Ellen) Zaugra M.D. and Mark (Teri) Zaugra of Portland, OR; three grandchildren: Oliver, Elliot and Emmitt; two greatgrandchildren, Allison and Aaron; his sister, Arlene (Raymond) Gorski; his brother, LeRoy (Cathy) Zaugra; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur Zaugra.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Waukegan, Illinois. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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