John Rene Verbecken

John Rene Verbecken age 84, a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 14, 2026 in the comfort of his home in Jackson, Michigan surrounded by his family. He was born January 13, 1942 in Grass Lake, Michigan. John's life was a testament to love, family, and laughter.

John spent his years a draftsman for Consumers Power and then as a Master Plumber, owning Will-Pan Plumbing Inc. He enjoyed golf, forming the annual Septemberfest golf tournament. He liked camping, poker, and the casino, was a deer hunter and enjoyed blue gill fishing, bowling and playing cards, but his passions were snow plowing and mowing the yard. He loved being of service to others. His BBQ was neighborhood famous. He loved was watching his kids, grandkids and great grandkids in their sporting activities.

He is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Carolyn (Pancerz) Verbecken and his three daughters, Cheryl (David) Prough, Kristen (Troy) LeFaive, Michelle (Jeffrey) Brafford. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Brandon Prough, Chelsea Stokes, Jordan and Logan LeFaive, Courtney Davenport, Josee and Jake Brafford; great grandchildren: Cannon and Dallas Prough, Ava and Onaleigh Stokes; and his sister, Laura Moss. He was affectionately named "chocolate papa" due to his surprise treats of Hinckley donuts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmond and Evelyn Verbecken; siblings, Virginia Pulka, Margaret Moffat, and Cliff Verbecken; and his beloved dog, Trixie.

John was devoted to serving others and a proud member of the Lions Club, Jackson Moose Lodge, Knights of Columbus, and American Legion, also the Plumbers and Pipefitters Association. He served with the United States Army Reserves. He was an active member in his church at St Mary Star of the Sea Parish.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, located at 120 E. Wesley Street, Jackson, MI 49201 on Wednesday, July 22. Friends and family visitation will begin at 2:00 PM with the Funeral Mass at 3:00 PM. Father Tim Nelson will officiate the Mass. A Luncheon will immediately follow at Gene Davis Catering, at 3575 Francis Street, Jackson, MI 49203.