John J. Biermacher
August 10, 1950 – December 17, 2023
A Celebration of Life is being planned for Sunday, January 14, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Jac’s, 3112 S. 9th St., Kalamazoo. Memorial contributions may be given to Centrica Care Navigators, Kalamazoo Communities in Schools or Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Kids in Tune, in c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 73, joined his Heavenly Father, family members and friends on Sunday morning, December 17, 2023. John was born in Grand Rapids, on August 10, 1950, the son of Herbert and Dorothy (Beining) Biermacher. On July 1, 1972, he married Sue Thaler who survives him. Where he attended school, where he worked, what awards he received did not define his life. What was important to him were the people he met, the friends he held dear and most importantly the love for his family. John loved unconditionally. Meeting Sue in the sixth grade, starting to date her as sophmores in high school, all led to 51 years of marriage, a cherished daughter, Sarah Garcez; a wonderful son-in-law, Michael Garcez; and grandchildren, John Michael Garcez and Clara Garcez who were the loves of his life. Though he worked for The Upjohn Company for 33 years, his passion was woodworking, which led to many friends and customers with his projects still in their homes. Known for his jokes, many of you heard them more than once. Though he has left us behind, let us not shed tears but cherish the memories. Besides his immediate family John is survived by his brothers, Michael (Judi) Biermacher; and Gary Biermacher; sister-in-law, Lory Biermacher; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends. John was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.
Dear Sue, it was such a joy for Jan and I to become friends with you and John. Our card games with pizza and an occasional beer will always be cherished. Your life story of John was so appropriate when you said, John was not defined by his work or his accomplishments, but by who he truly was. I feel fortunate to call him my friend.
Sorry to hear that John passed away. He was one of my first mentors when I started with Upjohn back in the day! John always had a joke to tell, but yet was always passionate about his work. I loved going to coffee break with him! He so enjoyed life! I thank you, Sue, for bringing John over to Pam’s house when I was visiting Kalamazoo a year or so ago. I will always cherish the memory of shooting the breeze with John one more time! Blessing to all of you and all of his friends.