John E. Zalner

With his wife, Annette, holding his hand, John E. Zalner, 77, of Battle Creek, went to be with Jesus on January 2, 2019 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence. John was born on December 20, 1941 in Jackson, MI to Stanley and Marie (Taylor) Zalner. He graduated from Springfield High School in 1960. He then graduated from Sheet Metal Journeyman School. After working in the business for over 35 years, John retired in 1998 from Shouldice Brothers as General Superintendent.

John married the love of his life, Annette L. (Evans) in March, 1977, who survives. John is also survived by two sons, Thomas J. (Wendy) and Jeffrey M. (Courtney); a step-son, Chad M. (Angie) Hiltner; four wonderful grandchildren, Kali, Jessica (Derrick), Brock and Kyle; step-grandchildren, Addison, Derek and Megan; a great-granddaugther, Parker Ann and another on the way; a brother, Stanley (Dawn); a sister, Judy (Ed) Conkell and two sisters-in-law, Carol Zalner and Beth Anderson.  John was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Thomas Zalner.

John was an avid fisherman, spending happy days on his boat at Lake Michigan and Saginaw Bay with his fishing pals. He spent countless hours in his barn tinkering, building various metal and wood projects and maintaining his big boy toys. His yard was his pride and joy, from his manicured lawn to his flower gardens and his love of a vegetable garden. He loved playing with his grandchildren and cheering them on at their sporting event.  He was a super "PAPA."

John was a giver. He went throughout the neighborhood to help anyone he could; from plowing their driveway, mowing their lawn or helping with a project. He will be truly missed.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 9, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, where funeral services to celebrate John's life will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or the Human Society of South Central Michigan.  Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.