John E. Mosher, age 90 of Grand Rapids, Michigan. John was born October 27th, 1925 and passed away peacefully at his home in Ludington on Monday, June 13. He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, of 25 years, son Kirk Mosher and wife Cheri, son David Mosher and wife Laura, daughters Lynn Funk and Wendy Mosher, grandchildren Brooks Mosher and partner Lori, Holly Mosher, Kara Mosher and partner Jody, Brandon Funk and wife Jessie, Tyler Funk and wife Lisa, Kyle Funk and partner Portia, Brittney Mosher, and Ashley Mosher, great-grandchildren Kendall, Layla and Josephine Funk, and Ella and Oliver Karbowski, as well as by his stepsons Scott and Wife Kathy, David Keller and wife Melinda, and grandchildren Emily and Josh Keller.

John was a much loved and respected restaurateur whose values, integrity, adventurous spirit, and work-ethic endeared him to his friends, family and employees. He grew up on an Ada dairy farm, and joined the Navy to serve on a submarine during World War II. On a submarine tender boat during his service he spotted a torpedo in the water and alerted the tower, allowing the captain to change course, likely saving many lives. After the war he attended Michigan State University- nearly graduating before dropping out to start a hot dog stand. While he was tough, he was loving and will be remembered for his broad, contagious smile, his quick wit, and for always having a new joke to tell. John's long and successful career included owning and running his first restaurant, a drive-in called the "Here Tis," and later a number of Big Boys restaurants.

John was a fun loving guy who always sought adventure. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed boating, fishing and hunting in the Upper Peninsula with his friends, who always seemed to his children to be larger-than-life. His favorite thing was flying his small airplanes, a passion he shared with friends and passed on to his son. John once amazed the Coast Guard in Leland by coming in from Frankfort through a storm that brought 20 foot swells to his 40 foot tugboat, Old Smiley. Old Smiley was the only boat that came into Leland that day. Later in life he and his wife Phyllis loved to travel in their motorhome, going on adventures that took them all the way to Alaska. He was the second best Bridge player in his marriage, and made and kept many friends playing cards both in Michigan and in Florida.

As a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and husband, John will be missed dearly. Those who got to know him are grateful for the privilege of having done so. His family will always cherish the gift of being a part of his life as we'll getting to spend time near the end of his life with him; to hear his stories again or for the first time, to see his resilient smile and be on the receiving end of his firm grip in a handshake or hug, to laugh at his wisecracks, and to say goodbye. He was tough and funny to the end, and that is how he will always be remembered.

Lake Michigan was a special place, home to many cherished memories for John and his family, and in accordance with his wishes his ashes will be spread there privately. There will not be a service, and donations in his memory can be made to Harbor Hospice, 1050 West Western Avenue Suite 400, Muskegon, MI 49441.