Jay Suhonen, 85

John “Jay” Suhonen, age 85, of Centreville, died Saturday, March 2, 2024 at his home after a 7 year battle with leukemia. He was born in Fairfax, MI on April 22, 1938, a son of John and Janie Mae (Chapman) Suhonen. Jay graduated from Centreville High School in 1956, where he was active in 4-H. From 1955 to 1963, Jay served in the US Army National Guard. On November 23, 1968 he married Judy Marie Stiver at Fish Lake Bible Church.

Jay was raised on the family farm where he gained his love for animals. In 1958 he started a grain grinding business for area farmers. In 1963 he became an agent for Standard Oil in Centreville and in the early 1970’s he opened Central Fuel service, delivering fuel oil for many residents and businesses, retiring in 2005. Following retirement he loved to tinker and repair things in his shop.

Jay was a former member of the Centreville Lions Club and Centreville Alumni Association, never missing a reunion. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his father and friends, as well as feeding birds and birdwatching.

Surviving are his wife Judy Suhonen, Centreville,  daughters Kimberly Kay (Rusty Gordon) Clark, Sturgis,  Janet Marie Suhonen, Centreville,  Kathy Jo Suhonen, Franklin, TN,  grandchildren Paul Tyler (Lorin) Clark and Hunter Allen Clark, great grandchildren Vivienne Kay Clark and Margaret Louise Clark, a brother and sister, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son in law Richard Allen Clark, and brother in law Thomas Dale Hensell.

Relatives and friends will be received Wednesday, March 6th from 4 to 7 pm at Eley Funeral Home in Centreville. A private graveside service will take place at Prairie River Cemetery in Centreville with Pastor Clint Zehr officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph County A.R.F. To leave a message for the family and sign Jay’s online guest book visit www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.