John Craig Robertson

John Craig Robertson, 70, a lifelong Battle Creek resident died peacefully on Friday, March 31, 2023 at home with his family at his side. 

John was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on May 26, 1952, to John Cunningham and Marceline Frances (Prill) Robertson. John attended St. Philip Catholic Central graduating in 1970. John attended Ferris State, but had to return home to care for his father ultimately earning an Associate Degree from Kellogg Community College. John had 20 years of government service. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army and retired as a Passenger Rail Safety Specialist in December 2022 from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) after 18 years. His distinguished service was recognized with two Superior Achievement awards. John was employed prior to this for 28 years with Grand Trunk Western / Canadian National Railroad, last as a Superintendent. His fellow railroaders always referred to him as “John R.” His railroad wisdom will be missed by all. He advises you to continue listening for two longs, a short, and a long before every railroad crossing. 

John was united in marriage to Leslie Ann Skertic on October 9, 1976 at St. Philip Roman Catholic Church in Battle Creek. Surviving are Leslie, his wife of 46+ years; their children, Hilary (Scott) Fletcher of Canton, MI; John Michael Robertson of Battle Creek; grandchildren, Dylan, Grant and Hadley Fletcher; sisters, Jill (Del) Fausey of Battle Creek, Mary (Dave) Grimm of Battle Creek; brother, Tim (Carol) Robertson of Redwood City, CA; brothers-in-law, James “Jim” Cochrane of Battle Creek, Michael Darr of Battle Creek; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. John was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Jane Cochrane and Linda Darr; niece, Becky McGriff and nephew, Ryan Fausey.  

John was a lifetime member of St. Philip Catholic Church. He was an excellent basketball and baseball player at St. Philip. He would tell you he was a better passer than shooter. He loved watching sports and played softball much of his life. He was the head-cook at his famous University of Michigan tailgate parties for family and friends. He never gave us his famous chili recipe. John was always an avid reader and enjoyed playing cards, especially with his grandchildren. People have advised others to NOT play cards with him as he knows what you have before you do. He loved spending time with family hosting holiday parties. One of his most cherished activities was the annual trip to South Haven with his grandkids who called him Bampy. John will be remembered for his remarkable memory. He will fact check this. He was so intelligent, quick witted, patient, and easygoing. He left a trail of people marked by his kindness and humor. Forever, Go Blue!

Friends will be received 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where the Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. James Richardson at St. Philip Roman Catholic Church 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Military honors and committal will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Philip Roman Catholic Church Restore and Renew Fund, 112 Capital Avenue N.E., Battle Creek, MI 49017.  Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.