John Malcolm Southworth

John M. Southworth, age 83, of Vicksburg, Michigan, passed away Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Heartland Nursing Home in Three Rivers, Michigan. John was born December 10, 1932 in Vicksburg, Michigan to Cecil and Virginia (Forsyth) Southworth. John lived in the Vicksburg area most of his life. After high school John worked as a heavy equipment operator for a construction company. Later he joined the Seabee's branch of the Navy. John was a very patriotic veteran. John was a lifetime member of The Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) and also a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association (NRA) John retired from the Upjohn Company after working for the company for over 30 years. John raised one child, Bruce. Their relationship was a very special bond and friendship. John met his wife, Joan, at elementary school in Vicksburg when they were children. They were united in married many years later and had a love affair of over 40 years. John learned to ride horses just to please Joan! John loved his Harley Davidson Motorcycle. He and Joan enjoyed many trips and experiences during those years. He also enjoyed surprising Joan by riding his motorcycle down dirt roads and through irrigation systems as the water covered the roadways, laughing all the way!! John loved the out of doors. He was a true lover of cats and dogs. John loved his woods and wild animals. He was a true friend to animals and truly embraced nature. John was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his devoted wife Joan, son Bruce D. (Paige) Southworth, brother William (Darlene) Southworth, sisters Deborah Jenkins and her late husband Bud, Mary (George) Vander Schaaf along with several nieces and nephews. His dear neighbors Walt and Kathy Leaders and a host of very special friends. John will be dearly missed by all who knew him.