John Richard Biek

Biek, John Richard
89 of Jackson, MI passed away September 13, 2019. Born in Kalamazoo, MI. In 1930, he was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Helen (Meisterheim) Biek, son, David, sister, Virginia and beloved aunt and uncle, Lillian and Leonard Bell. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth, children, Lisa (Mike) Cavender, James, Neil (Julie Prentice), Ellen, Loriene (Jeff Thigpen) and his beloved cat, Wally. His grandchildren include David (Lauren), Justin, Sarah (Sam) Lilley and Michael Cavender; Christopher, Jacob and Brandon Biek; Briana and John Grant Hazel. His great-grandchildren Carter Biek, Morgan Cavender and Hudson Lilley. He had a long and distinguished 40-year career at Consumers Energy while being an active community and church volunteer. He volunteered his time to various organizations including Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church, Jackson Interfaith Shelter, Meal on Wheels, Veterans Administration, Lumen Christi High School, St. Rita's Catholic Church, among others. While studying to become a mechanical engineer at the University of Detroit, he met the lovely and outgoing, Elizabeth (Liz) Bilek. After discovering she could make the best pie he had ever eaten, John married Liz in Hamtramck, MI on December 27, 1955 and life was never boring again. Immediately, they set off for Cheyenne, WY and then, to England for several years of service in the Air Force. Upon returning to the States, he and his bride settled in Jackson. Then, he began both his career and family. John lived his life centered in his Catholic faith through his words, actions and deeds. He was a kind, dedicated and generous husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed a good Tanqueray and tonic, homemade chicken soup, Friday night date night with the love of his life, Lizzy at Gilbert's Steakhouse and time with his family and friends. His many hobbies included: a bad golf game, tennis, watching the Detroit Lions lose, enjoying watching the Detroit Tigers, bike riding, sailing, boating and eating sweets.

Special thanks and gratitude to best big sister ever, Lisa Cavender for all her time, attention, love and caring for our Dad.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday, September 17 at 10:30 AM at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church. Father Timothy MacDonald will be the Celebrant. A private Interment will take place at St. John's Catholic Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Monday, September 16 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM. They will also receive friends at the Church on Tuesday, before the Mass, from 10:00 to 10:30 AM.

The family would like to extend a special note of thanks to Legacy Assisted Living and their amazing staff. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Jackson Interfaith Shelter.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family owned for 129 years