John L. Grande

John L. Grande, age 68, died at home surrounded by the love of his family on September 30, 2023 following a 7-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

John was born on February 4, 1955 to Leonard and Wanda Grande (nee Jakubowski) in Cleveland, Ohio. He met the love of his life, Gretchen, and they were married on May 24, 1980 and together, they raised three beautiful daughters. John received a bachelor’s degree in business from Northwood University and a Master’s degree in business from Central Michigan University. He spent over 40 years working in the automotive industry and retired in 2021 from his role as the Senior Account Manager at ADAC Automotive.

John loved to play golf and go fishing with his buddies. He enjoyed sitting in his backyard around the fire and spending time up north with his family. He was a talented photographer and carpenter. He was a jogger and ran multiple 5K races even throughout his battle against pancreatic cancer. He enjoyed riding his bike and walking his dog, Maya. John was an exquisite teller of jokes and true stories, and could be counted on to break the ice or flip a somber moment thoroughly into laughter. His jokes and smile will live on in his family and friends forever. He truly was our Superman.

John was a beloved husband to Gretchen (nee Reed); proud father to Allison (Alex Stoner) Grande, Aimee Grande, and Abigail (Ryan Robinet) Grande; cherished brother to Linda (Daniel) Gimmy; adored son-in-law to Heidemarie Reed; loved brother-in-law to Katherine Grande (nee Vidican), and Paul (Kathleen) Reed; loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many dear friends and by his Maligator, Maya, and cats, Luna and Neville.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, James and Jeffrey Grande, sister-in-law, Jacqueline Gurizzian (nee Reed), and mother and father-in-law, William and Jean-Ann Reed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network [https://secure.pancan.org/site/Donation2?df_id=6701&mfc_pref=T&6701.donation=form1] or Almost Home Animals - No Kill Rescue [https://almosthomeanimals.org/donate/].

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