John F. Lanko, II, 48, of Battle Creek, died suddenly on Tuesday, October 15, 2019. John was born January 13, 1971 in Battle Creek to Johnny and Margaret (Organ) Lanko. He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School and was a jack of all trades for many years before working at the Fort Custer National Cemetery and the VA Hospital. John was extremely proud of his service in the United States Army as a combat medic.
John loved to spend time outdoors, whether it be camping, golfing, kayaking or canoeing. He enjoyed shooting pool and spending time with his dog, Harley.
John is survived by his daughter, Samantha Lanko; his mother, Margaret Parsons; five sisters, Kim Seagers, Margie (Adam) Craig, Tracy Nichols, Tina Brown and Dana (John) Moore; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, and his other half, Harley.
John was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Lanko, a sister, Sheri Lanko-Sedlacek and his grandparents, Neva and Keith Organ and John and Dixie Lanko, and his grandmother Marjorie Murphy.
Visitation will be Monday, October 21, 2019 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, where funeral services to celebrate John's life will be at 12:30 p.m. Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to make memorial donations are asked to consider the VA Hospital in Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.