John Wheeler "Jack" Raseman

Jack Raseman of Gull Lake (Augusta), MI

Jack, age 90, passed away peacefully with family at his bedside on Tuesday evening, October 27, 2020

Jack was born in Kalamazoo and graduated from Kalamazoo Central. After college, he joined the United States Air Force, where he met the love of his life, Gwen, in Germany and they were married on St. Patrick's Day in 1956. Jack & Gwen owned Deck n Den Furniture of Kalamazoo for 25 years and were awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019 by the International Casual Furnishings Association for their industry innovation and dedication to serving their customers.

Jack was a member of St. Anne's & St. Ambrose Parish, the Southwest Michigan Gun Club and enjoyed photography, wood working and year-round living at the lake. He was quick witted and always left a smile on the face of people who spent time with him.

Some of the highlights of his last year included an Honor Flight to Washington DC (recognizing his military service), celebrating his 90th (over a 3-week period!), their 64th wedding anniversary and hosting his grandson's wedding at their home in September.

His life and spirit will be cherished in the lives of his children: Steve (Beth) Raseman, Ruth Mallen, Donn (Carol) Raseman and he will join his son Mark who passed away in 1983. Jack and Gwen were also blessed with five grandchildren, one great grandchild, three granddogs and wonderful extended family, friends and neighbors.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a family service was held on Saturday, October 31st in the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel with Monsignor Michael Hazard of the Kalamazoo Diocese, officiating. The service was recorded (in 2 parts) and may be viewed by visiting the multimedia tab here with Jack's obituary. A Celebration of Life service will be held in the Spring of 2021 with final committal in Yorkville Cemetery, Ross Township with the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Honor Guard bestowing military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jack's honor may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60606. The Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel is assisting Jack's family.