Do it Yourself

Write an Obituary

An obituary is a lasting memorial to your loved. It’s ok to use humor, if that’s appropriate for your family.

How to Write an Obituary:

Once you have the information, put it in paragraph format like this:

John Lawrence Doe, 87, passed away on Saturday, July 1, 2008 at Mercy Health Hospital in Muskegon, following a brief illness.

Born and raised in Muskegon, the son of Benedict and Hazel (Smith) Doe, John was a lifelong resident of Whitehall. In his early years, he would help sell fruit for the family's farm, Doe Orchards. After graduating from Whitehall High School in 1940, he attended Michigan State University, graduating in 1944 with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. He met his wife, Jane Johnson, in college and they were married in 1944 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. In 1945, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he was a Seaman, First Class.

After serving with the Coast Guard, John had the opportunity to join the State Farm Insurance Company in Norton Shores. In 1948, he started the John Doe Insurance Agency. He not only took pride in his business, but truly relished the friends he made during his time in business. Over the years, his insurance expertise and reputation led him to be named the top Insurance Agent for State Farm Insurance Co.

John had a passion for animals and volunteered over 1500 hours at the local animal shelter. Over the years, he adopted 24 senior dogs and helped them live out their final years in the comfort of his home.

An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of Chrysler Country Club, the Montague Club and the infamous Potter House Country Club in Norton Shores. He served on the board of directors for Chrysler Country Club and Hillside Church of Whitehall.

John leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Jane (Johnson) Doe; his son, Christopher Doe and his companion, Joanne Beeman; his daughter, Jennifer Doe; his brother, Raymond Doe; two grandchildren; and many close friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Eva Slante.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Friday, July 14, 2008 at 1:00 pm at Hillside Church of Whitehall, with visitation starting at 12:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society.

Please share your fond memories and photos of John. 

Cremation services were provided by Grace Cremations.