John Edwin Mutchler, age 74, died peacefully at his home in Grand Rapids Township surrounded by his family on Friday, January 23, 2015. A memorial service and celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, February 14th at 11:00 am, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1100 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids, with Pastor David Nellist presiding. Visitation prior to the service will start at 10:00 am. John was born in Grand Rapids on June 13th, 1940 to Edwin Guy and Mary Lucille (Longcore) Mutchler. Raised in Sparta, John graduated from Sparta High School, class of 1958. Attending the University of Michigan, John earned his B.S.E. (1963), and M.S.E. (1964), both in Chemical Engineering. Professionally, he worked in Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health & Safety. John’s passions were collecting coins (numismatics), writing limericks, service to his church, and supporting the University of Michigan football team. John is survived by his sons Michael (Michele) of Hubbardston, MA and Steven (Kim) of Lolo, MT; daughter Kendra (Brian) Sullivan of Dubuque, IA; grandchildren Cameron, Mikaela, Graham and Holden Mutchler, and Erin, Bridget and Cara Sullivan; brothers David (JoSharon) and Tom (Ruth), and sister Mary Diane Mutchler Zimmer (Roy); dear friend Martha Dalton; an aunt, Aloe (Warren) Guiles, and an uncle, Norman (Sue) Mutchler; former wife Jill Breneman; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jeffrey. The family would like to thank the staff from Clark at Home and Hospice of Michigan for their loving and compassionate care. Memorial contributions may be given to the Community Ministries Program at Trinity United Methodist Church.
