John Leonard Doane

John Leonard Doane, age 88, of Lowell, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family early Wednesday morning, April 12, 2017. He was born on November 30, 1928, in Lansing, to Clarence John and Gretchen (Newth) Doane. John was raised on the family farm near Lansing and that farm remained a hub of family activities and gatherings for much of his life, taking his own children and grandchildren back there often to visit and celebrate holidays and other important events. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School with the Class of 1947. John exchanged vows with Irene May Stull in Lansing of July 3, 1948, and the couple has enjoyed 68 years of marriage. He went to work for the Michigan Department of Transportation shortly after high school and built a successful career there as an Engineer on road projects all over the state. Early in his career, he and Irene used a 16-foot travel trailer to move from location to location as the road projects required, making a home wherever they went. As they added children to their growing family, space became tight and even an open dresser drawer could be made into a comfortable bed for an infant. As the children grew, they realized they needed to settle down and get established in a school district so they bought property in Lowell and have lived there for 63 years. John will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

In addition to his dear wife, Irene; John leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Vickie (Dennis) Drougel of Grandville, Ann (Louis) Switlik of Kentwood, John Doane of Lowell, Jim (Linda) Doane of Lowell and Bill (Heather) Doane of Lowell; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Clarence.

John’s family is planning a private gathering to commemorate and celebrate his life. Those wishing to express sympathy are welcomed to consider making a donation in John’s memory to Faith Hospice, Trilluim Woods, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Dr., SW, Byron Center, Michigan, 49405, The Kidney Foundation or the charity of the donor’s choice.