WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
John Plantinga, age 81, of Cassopolis, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born November 9, 1944 in Barradeel, Netherlands, the son of Pieter and Jacoba (Kloosterman) Plantinga.
John worked for Allis-Chalmers and then as a drywaller as part of Union 460, as well as running his own drywall business for years before retirement.
On September 14, 1968, he married April McGowan. Together they raised four amazing children.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, April Plantinga; son, John Paul Plantinga; daughters, Mellisa (Jeff) Przybylinski, Annette (Chad) Sigman, and Henderika “Henny” Plantinga (Jeff Snyder); 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. John also leaves behind brothers, Pieter (Rosemary) Plantinga, Dick Plantinga; and sister, Henderika Parker; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother George and sister Renska “Renny.”
In accordance with family wishes, cremation will be conducted; services will be held later in the spring.
Donations in John’s memory may be directed to his wife, April. Envelopes will be available at Hohner Funeral Home.
