John Michael Vuksan, age 85, of 1305 Superior Avenue; Gladstone, died Wednesday, July 19th, 2006, at St. Francis Hospital.

John was born February 17th, 1921 in Escanaba, the son of Joseph and Roza (Stoicic) Vuksan and was raised in Wells and attended the St. Joseph High School in Escanaba.

In his adult life, he sailed the Great Lakes and was employed by Great Lakes Hanna Mining Co. for 35 years. John retired in 1974 as a chief engineer. After his retirement, John missed working and he therefore searched for employment and he later became a custodian for the Bishop Noa Home in Escanaba for 10 years, retiring permanently in 1985.

Making crafts, woodworking, and carpentry were favorite past-times of John and he made many birdhouses, wagons, benches and doghouses, many with ingenious designs.

In addition, he enjoyed gardening with tomatoes, cucumbers, and grapes among his favorite items to grow. His family also fondly remembers his cooking skills and his favorite dish of sauerkraut and sausage.   

John was a longtime member of All Saints Church in Gladstone.

John M. Vuksan survivors include:

His wife, the former Nathalie M. Hillewaert, whom he married December 29th, 1945 at All Saints Church.

1 Son- Rick (Elizabeth) Vuksan of Summerton, AZ

1 Daughter-Peggy (Bob) Harris of Gladstone
1 Brother- Tony (Romona) Vuksan of Meedville, PA

2 Sisters-Dora (Chet) Fronczak of Chicago, Millie Bartol of Gladstone

3 Grandchildren- Renee Vuksan of Arzona, Sara Harris of Gladstone, and John (Gina) Harris of Gladstone

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by three brothers; Michael, Steve, and Joe and by three sisters; Anna Debelak, Mary McClain, and Bertha Majestic.

The family of John Vuksan will receive friends on Saturday at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at All Saints Church with Rev. Fr. Arnold Grambow officiating. Luncheon will follow services at the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in the Fernwood Cemetery. The Skradski-Boyce Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Vuksan family. The family respectfully requests memorials on his behalf be directed to the Delta County Animal Shelter. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.