John Arden Carrott

John Arden Carrott was a planner and said when it was his time he would go quickly and not linger and that he did. John woke up on Feb. 1, 2013, and while trying to get ready for work, he just went down and within seconds his heart stopped. His wife called 911 and while waiting for help she began chest compressions. He was unresponsive. The paramedics were able to start his heart and took him to Bronson. On Feb 3, 2013, John officially went home to be with is Lord and Savior. John was a gentle giant who would give the shirt off his back to protect or help another. He proudly served his country for six years on the USS Vouge. His rank was Petty Officer First Class E-6. John had a list of credentials, inventions, so many it is impossible to list them all. He was a believer of Jesus Christ and attended 12th Street Baptist Church. He was a proud Republican, member of NRA, avid book reader, enjoyed movies, home improvement projects and anything that would exercise his mind. He worked out several days a week at BAC and took great pride in being healthy. He loved children and puppies, and they loved him too. John was born to Don and Marion Carrott on Dec. 18, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio. He was the first born of five playful brothers...Ric (Donna), Dave (Sandy), Scott (Amy) and Brad (Laura) who was born exactly ten years later to the day. John adored his son, Chris who survives along with his beautiful wife, Lisa and two very sweet grandchildren, Alyssa and Robert. On May 22, 1987, John married what he described as the "love of his life", Jerri Lynn Carrott. She describes their love as "a marriage made in Heaven". He was very close to his wife's family, Terri and Jim Wait (sister and brother-in-law), Michael and Pam Nishizawa (brother and sister-in-law), Elijah and Kalab (nephews). Arlene Holek (sister-in-law) Jeffrey and Matthew (nephews). He loved his mother- in- law, Sharlene (Edward) Nishizawa. He was also survived by one very special young lady, Ana (Brad) Benedetti that was like a daughter to John and Jerri. As well as Gwen (Whit) Hudson who was like a sister-in-law. She was actually the cupid to John and Jerri's love story, by introducing them. At John's request he donated his bones, skin and tissues to Gift of Life Michigan, thereafter cremation will take place. A Celebration of his Life will be held on February 24, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. at the 12th Street Baptist Church in Kalamazoo, MI. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the 12Th Street Baptist Church in Kalamazoo, MI.