John A. Barrows, age 85, of Sturgis, died Monday, June 10, 2024, at his residence.
He was born on March 10, 1939, in Orland, IN to Charles W. and Jessie (Fields) Barrows.
John was a graduate of Orland High School. He started farming at a young age and farmed until 1985, to pursue a career in construction. He would do all sorts of construction until his retirement.
On September 27, 1963, in Orland, he married Marilyn E. Wilson.
He enjoyed playing horseshoes, camping, and horseback riding. John was a collector of International Harvester tractors. He also enjoyed time spent with his family and loved watching them all play sports.
Surviving John is his wife, of almost 61 years, Marilyn, three daughters; Brenda (Bob) Callanan of Huntington Beach, CA, Beth (Mike) VanBlarcom of Bronson, MI, and Becky (Tim) Soergel of Sturgis; nine grandchildren, Kaitlin (Jeff) Meis of Johntown, CO, Kelsey Callanan of Denver, Kyle Callanan of Great Falls, MT, Isaac Robertson of Bronson, Rachel VanBlarcom of LaGrange, Tylar VanBlarcom of Bronson, AJ VanBlarcom of Girard, MI, Dalton Soergel and Dawson Soergel both of Sturgis; and six step-great grandchildren.
John was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Barbara Barrows; and a brother, Weir L. Barrows.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday, June 17, 2024, at the Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 West Michigan St. LaGrange.
Following the visitation there will be a Celebration at 70779 Bauman Road, Sturgis.
In leu of flowers the family suggests making a donation in John’s memory to St. Joseph County Animal Rescue or to the Three Rivers Homecare and Hospice.