John F. Korich

BERGLAND, Mich. - John F. Korich, 80, of Bergland, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022.

John was born on June 29, 1941, at his family's home in Bergland, to the late George and Hedwig (Franzel) Korich. He was raised in Topaz, and graduated from Bergland High School.

John was drafted into the U.S. Army in April 1966, and was a proud Vietnam veteran.

John was a hard worker all his life and was a skilled operator, mechanic and welder. He worked on the road fixing heavy equipment for many construction companies and was proud to be a member of Operating Engineers Local 324.

John continued to work hard even in retirement. He was the groomer mechanic and operator for the Lake Gogebic Chamber for many years, earning the honor of Groomer Mechanic and Operator of the Year by the Michigan Snowmobile Association in 2006. John was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing his bounties with his many friends and neighbors. In 2021, John completed construction on his camp in Topaz. Thanks to his endless determination and Korich stubbornness, he and his family were able to spend Christmas together at Camp 324 enjoying the fruits of his labor.

John is survived by his wife, Jean, of 53 years; three children, Cory "George" (Cresta), Neil and Dana (Alan) Mackey; and four grandchildren, Cree, Reese, Qynn and Kane. He is further survived by a sister, Frances Worachek; two brothers, George "Buddy" and Pete; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 21, (time to be announced later), at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Bergland.

Rite of Committal and interment will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Bergland, where full military rites will be accorded.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with their arrangements. To send online condolences please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.