John Russell Beattie's Obituary
John Russell Beattie, age 87 of Casco, entered eternal life while surrounded by the love of his family on February 19, 2024. John was born on February 4, 1937 to Grace (Summerville) and Charles Beattie. He married his wife, Marilyn, in 1959 and they enjoyed nearly 65 years of a wonderful and happy marriage.
John will forever be cherished by his family; wife Marilyn; daughter, Christa; son, Mark (Paula); grandchildren, Ashley and Robert; sister, Linda (Bob) Quirk; sisters in law, Karen (Darrell) Hanson and Betty Beattie; brothers in law, Elmer Lomerson (Dorothy), and Al Westrick; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by daughter, Cheryl; brother, Richard; sister, Joyce; brother in law, John Lomerson; and sister in law, Doris Thueme.
John had a love for rebuilding and flying antique aircraft and enjoyed many airplanes over the years. He delighted in traveling with Marilyn and friends to many antique airshows and events. John loved working on antique cars and built a Shelby Cobra kit car which he enjoyed taking to local car shows. He became an avid reader later in life and could frequently be found picking up books from his favorite local library. But of all his passions, his family remained his greatest joy.
John was an active member of St. James United Church of Christ. He was also a member and officer of the St. Clair County Chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). He truly enjoyed time spent with all his airport friends.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 23 from 2-8 pm at Young Funeral Home in China Township. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 24 at 11 am at St. James United Church of Christ, 9008 Meisner Rd., Casco, MI. Pastor Ken Gadd will officiate. Memorials may be made to St. James United Church of Christ, Casco, Michigan.
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