John E. Taylor

John Edward Taylor, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away into the loving arms of Jesus on March 16, 2025, at the age of 94. 

He was born to the late Fredrick and Laverna Taylor and was preceded in death by his siblings, Fredrick (Margaret), Benjamin (Louella), Elmer (Betty), Marion DePote (Earl), Leslie, and Laverna Cooper (Dale). 

On June 28, 1963, he married the love of his life, Alice Taylor, who survives. Their journey together began at Shakespeare’s Rod & Reel, where they first met while working. Their marriage was blessed with four children, Tammy Taylor (Gary Hurd), John Taylor, James Taylor (Amy Taylor), and Darrell Taylor (Katie Taylor). He was also a cherished grandfather to William Watts, Alicia Stephan (Jared), John Taylor (Danielle), Sonja Waleczak (Cameron), Nicole Webber (Robert), Tiphany Hedges, Nathan Swain (Matt), Cheyenne Taylor, Joseph Taylor, Jessie Taylor, Cassie Taylor, Joseph Meints (Amy), Holly McKinly (Maurice), and Sam Dyer. His legacy lives on through his 24 great-grandchildren. 

A man of many talents and passions, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from November 6, 1951, to January 26, 1953, where he became the first jet mechanic. His professional journey spanned various roles, including farmer, carpenter, mechanic, and tool & die maker. Over the years, he worked at Shakespeare’s Rod & Reel, Burroughs and Reem. 

His hobbies reflected his adventurous and dedicated spirit – he enjoyed camping, biking, fishing, roller skating, bowling, baking, playing the piano and most importantly, preaching the word of God. His deep faith led him to spend 30 years working on a model of Solomon’s Temple, which is now housed at the Masonic Temple in Battle Creek, Michigan. His love for biblical history and knowledge even inspired him to learn Hebrew and travel to Jerusalem in pursuit of a deeper understanding of the Bible and Solomon’s Temple. 

Though he left school early to work on the family farm, his commitment to education never wavered, and he later returned to earn his high school diploma in 1971. 

His wisdom, kindness and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by his family, friends, and many people he inspired throughout his life. 

Friends may visit with John’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 A.M., with celebrant Bill Rose officiating. 

Burial will follow at East Cooper Cemetery in Cooper Township. 

Contributions in memory of John may be directed to the charity of your choice. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.