John, I’ve donated a modest amount to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in your name. It was an honor knowing and chatting with you these past several years. Some day, there will be no cancer! May you rest in peace. Your friend, Dave, in Florida

Posted by David Perricelli on March 29, 2026

It was a pleasure to know John. His love of history, baseball, football, photography, mentorship, social justice, and Michigan State gave us a great deal to talk about. Quick phone calls had a way of spilling over an hour. I came to know John when he moved back to Michigan and was able to re-engage with MSU. We'd known each other through LinkedIn for some time. The first time I met him in person, he was visiting campus after stopping by the Vet Med clinic to thank them for the care they gave his dog. I was showing him around campus. It was summertime. We were able to get into his former dorm, Philips Snyder. There wasn't a way to get up to the dorm floors. Hallways were locked. John was looking for a way up when we ran into a janitor - literally. John negotiated a tour on the spot. I was sure we'd be tossed out. When the janitor quickly agreed, John flashed a smile. After the tour, I'm complimented him for his negotiation tactics. He said he was getting up there one way or another, so he was glad it worked out that way. I believed him. It was a fun moment. I'm going to miss this Spartan. MLB Opening Day came and went without our usual check-in. I knew what that meant. To the Gilman family, please accept my genuine condolences.

Posted by Lisa Parker on March 27, 2026