John P. Councell, age 67 of Farwell, formerly of Okemos, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at the North Woods Nursing Center of Farwell. On November 9, 1955, John was born one of six children to John A. and Patricia (Connelly) Councell in Detroit, Michigan.
In 1968, John’s family moved to Farwell following his father’s work career, and John attended and graduated from Farwell High School in 1973. Almost immediately following his graduation, John enlisted with the U.S. Navy, having served time overseas in Spain. In his early twenties, John was involved in a motor vehicle accident that not only ended his military career, but also impacted some of his physical abilities, which led him to relocate to Okemos, MI. and introduced him to a wonderful relationship with Michigan’s Hope Network. Through Hope Network, John took employment with Peckham Industries for an impressive twenty-year career as a general laborer—of which he was very proud. John’s passions included bowling, ceramics, playing cards (especially pinochle) with his parents, and rooting for the Detroit Tigers and Lions. However, those that knew John best, knew that he was happiest every chance he got to take a trip to the casino and enjoy the slots.
John is survived by his four sisters Carol Viazanko of Hartland, MI., Sharon Wainman and Cindy Rank both of Lake, MI, and Tammy (Dennis) Easlick of Farwell, as well as many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents John A. and Patricia Councell and his brother Timothy Councell.
A memorial visitation in honor of John will take place on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the Clare Chapel of the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. His final place of rest will be the St. Cecilia Catholic Cemetery of Clare. Memorial contributions in honor of John may be directed to the Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund of Clare.
For those unable to attend services, online condolences may be shared on John’s tribute page at www.stephenson-wyman.com