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of Dexter, Michigan, age 77 passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Brightside Assisted Living in Jackson. He was born May 18, 1947, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Clifford Myron and Ellen Cecillia (Lobdell) Hollenbeck.  Growing up, John was an Altar Boy for 7 years at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter. In 1966, John enlisted in the Marines and served in Vietnam. John worked as a Machinist and Tool Maker at the King-Seeley Plant, which Chrysler bought out, then GT Products, and Eaton Co., when it closed. John then worked for Dapco Industries until he retired in 2009 after 41 years in the industry.

John was a VFW Member. He was a member of the American Legion Post 557 for 54 years and the Sons of the American Legion for 31 years. He sponsored and worked the Make-a-Wish and Child Welfare Charity Golf Outing for 25 years, which helped support the Make-a-Wish Foundation and the American Legion's Child Welfare Foundation. John worked with wonderful friends at the Annual Ann Arbor Salvation Army's Silent Auction and volunteered with the Dexter-Ann Arbor Annual 5k Run for 25 years. He served in the Honor Guard for the American Legion and carried the American Flag during the Memorial Day parades. John enjoyed fishing and golfing and would do so in any weather.

On May 29, 1969, John married Clara Rackham at St. Thomas Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. He is also survived by his son, Robert “Robb” (Amy Dorow) Hollenbeck of Jackson; his daughter, Amber (Michael) Slomka of Ypsilanti; his brother, Tim Hollenbeck; three grandchildren, Logan, Taylen, and Emma; 11 nieces and nephews; 3 sisters-in-law and 2 brothers-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Thomas, Cliff, Mike, and Leo; and sister, Mary Jane.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 1, 11:00am, at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Phil Stout officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11 am.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, American Legion Post 557 or the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Our family would like to thank the Veterans Hospital of Ann Arbor for all their help and support, the wonderful people at Brightside Assisted Living for the respect, care and support they gave and the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation for the kindness and thoughtfulness they gave to John and our family.


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Comments  

#3 Linda Rosacrans 2025-01-30 13:50
Please accept our prayers and and condolences to all of John’s family. From Ned and Linda
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#2 Stan Ashcraft. 2025-01-22 16:23
I was honored to know John. I married his Brother Mike's Widow, Lori and worried about acceptance from the Hollenbeck family. Upon meeting John, and the rest of the clan including Leo and Tim Hollenbeck I found out quickly I had no worries. John and I became friends. A fine and big hearted gentleman. You will be missed my friend. May you eternally rest in peace.
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#1 Cynthia Rackham 2025-01-22 11:02
Many heartfelt hugs go out to Clara, Robb, Amber and the entire family. I was never aware John was involved in so many charitable activities. Bless him!
I do remember his unwavering kindness and the smile he always wore. John was a very special person. May his memory be eternal.
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