John L. Wilson

John’s life began on May 28, 1938 in Lake City, Arkansas, the son of George and Ruby Wilson. He was united in marriage to the former Esther “Corky” Penrod on December 7, 1957 in Dowagiac. John was a carpenter and farmer for many years. He knew how to build, pour concrete or anything else he needed to do. He was employed by the Ed Lowe Farm for 15 years. He was a hunter, whether it is deer, coon, or rabbit, he loved to hunt. John was a true family man. If you did not visit enough, he would call to find out where you have been and each grandchild had to give him a hug as they passed by. He was always ready for a good conversation and his easy going manner made him a very likeable guy. His loving family includes his wife of 51 years Esther “Corky” Wilson of Dowagiac, children Virginia (Clyde) Rank, Tim (Johnna) Wilson, John Wilson, Joyce Wilson and Robert Wilson, all of Dowagiac, 14 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, sisters Pearl Lovell of Rockford, Mary Tinkey of Marshall, Lorene Giles of Florida and Louise Coffey of Dowagiac, brothers Jay Wilson of Dowagiac, and Brian Wilson of Missouri, several nieces and nephews sister in law Marcy Bartels of Grand Rapids and brother in law Weston Leighton of Florida. John passed away at Borgess Medical Center on May 29, 2009. He is preceded in death by brothers Junior, Herbert, Hubert and W. A. Wilson. His family will gather with friends on Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. at McLauchlin-Clark Funeral Home where his funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 3 p.m. led by Pastor Gerald Bushnell. He will be laid to rest in South Wayne Cemetery. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the family. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of John at www.mclauchlin-clark.com .