John Vandergriff Obituary, Battle Creek Michigan Remembering The Life And Legacy Of John Vandergriff

John Vandergriff Obituary, Death – John Alvin Vandegriff, Sr., 90, a resident of Battle Creek, peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 3, 2010, at Battle Creek Health System, surrounded by his loving children. Born on April 16, 1920, in Bethel, OH, he was the son of Alvin and Sarah (Daley) Vandegriff. On September 21, 1952, he married the late Virginia (Chingwa) Vandegriff in Northville, MI. John’s journey included a distinguished 23-year service in the U.S. Air Force, where he served his country with dedication.

To provide for his family, he held various jobs, including a night watchman at Knappen-Milling. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force, he continued his industrious spirit and worked at Clark Equipment until his retirement. Throughout his life, he proudly held memberships in multiple organizations, such as the Saladin Shriners, Scottish Rite Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons, 33 Degree Mason, Lodge 398, VFW, American Legion, and The Eagle’s. His faith was also paramount, and he was an active member of the St. Jerome Parish.

John’s interests were as diverse as his life experiences. He found solace in nurturing his plants, and he had a passion for cooking. Above all, he treasured moments with his family and shared many joyful occasions playing cards. He was a dedicated attendee of the Knights of Pythians, cherishing his bi-weekly meetings and punctuality. Survived by his children, Eileen (Duane Blankenship) Yeager, John (Linda) Vandegriff, Jr., Grant (Tammy) Vandegriff, and Laura Ure, John was especially proud of his cherished grandchildren: Larry, Tony, John III, Sean, Alexis, Jenny, Samantha, Shalyn, and Alec. He also adored his great-granddaughter, Alaila. John held a special place in his heart for his dear friends, John Forney and Jo McClenney.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia; his parents; his grandson, Daniel Yeager; his favorite son-in-law, Tim Ure; as well as his brothers and sisters. A visitation will be held at Bachman Hebble Funeral Service on Sunday from 4:00-7:00 P.M. Funeral services will take place on Monday at 9:00 A.M. at the Bachman Funeral Chapel, officiated by Pastor Robert L. Zuhl of First Wesleyan Church. His final resting place will be the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI. In memory of his life, contributions may be made to Knights of Pythians.