John C. "Jack" Bland's Obituary
Age 89, of Summit Township, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2020 at Ganton's Countryside Grand under the care of the Grand staff and Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia "Pat" J. (Ferry) Bland in 2015; his twin brother, Eugene C. Bland; siblings Coburn C. Bland, D.O. of Lansing and Richard A. (Linda) Bland of Arizona; mother, Elizabeth A. Wolfe and step-father, Edward Bland. He is survived by his sister, Phyllis A. McCluskey of Jackson; nieces and nephews; and many friends. Jack was a 1949 graduate of St. Mary's High School; during which time he excelled in boxing and participated in the Jackson Athletic Association Boxing Club where he earned several trips to state competitions and even the Olympic Trials. Soon after school, he joined the Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict, serving his country from 1951-54 attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Upon returning home, Jack started working for Michigan Bell Telephone and retired from AT&T in 1986 with 32 years of service. His memberships include the American Legion Richard Smith Post #29 and the Loyal Order of the Moose. Jack was a member of Queens Parish, volunteering with Church Hospitality and the Community Chest. He was also active at Cornerstone Church, where he was baptized on September 27, 2015. He and his wife Pat volunteered often at the Countryside Care Center serving many hours in the Activities Program in areas such as the Senior Nursing Home Olympics, the Evergreen Prom that involves all area nursing homes, and so many programs that entertained the Countryside residents. Over the years, Jack donated blood and worked drives as well, only giving up donating due to a heart attack late in his life. He helped out at the Allegiance Health Wellness Center, at Youth Haven, as well as many other charities. Jack was an active "puttsier" around the house and yard, having tested his creativity in many projects. Perhaps one of his most loved hobbies was golf. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service to honor Jack's life will be held at Cornerstone Christian Church, 2395 W. High Street in Jackson on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 11:00 am with Pastor Devin Robertson and former Pastor Michael Mason officiating. Visitation will be at the church beginning at 10:30 am. Interment at Ft. Custer National Cemetery will be held at a later date. For those who wish, contributions in his memory to Youth Haven or Cornerstone Church would be appreciated.
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