John Jackson

John Jackson, a longtime resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on August 29, 1946, to Marie (Abbot) and Howard Jackson.

John graduated from University High School in Kalamazoo in 1964 before attending Michigan State University. From 1967 to 1971, he served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. After his military service, he established a successful real estate career that spanned more than five decades.

Sailing was one of John’s greatest passions. Whether racing on Gull Lake or navigating the open waters of Lake Michigan, he found joy and adventure on the water.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; his daughters, Angie Jackson (Sarah MacLean) and Ali Norberg (George); his adored sister-in-law, Susan deSteiguer (Bruce O’Reilly); brothers Howard and Richard; his grandsons, Jackson and Cole Norberg (with Lou DeHollander-Bird); his great-granddaughter, Freya John; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family is deeply grateful to the staff of Elara Caring Hospice, the doctors, nurses, and staff at the VA Hospital in Battle Creek, Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, and especially the LVAD team and staff at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, for their exceptional care of our father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.

John’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.  A private celebration of life will be scheduled sometime this spring or early summer.