John N. Schermerhorn, Jr.

John Neff Schermerhorn, Jr., 87, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born on May 1, 1937, in Brooklyn, NY and was the son of Evelyn and John Schermerhorn.

John will always be remembered for his dedication to his beloved wife, Mary Pat, and family. A 63-year marriage is a testament to his enduring love and commitment. He had a generous spirit, calm demeanor, and was always entertaining people with his quick wit and well-timed one-liners.

John attended Port Washington High School on Long Island where he was an active participant in football, basketball, and track. Tall in stature earning the nickname “Big John,” he had a calm, quiet presence with an ever-present grin. He went on to attend the University of New Hampshire, where he played basketball and was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, followed by graduate school at Boston College.

John joined the Upjohn Company in 1960 on Long Island and later transferred to New York City. In 1967, he moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Over these years, he developed lasting friendships which were treasured. He retired in 1997 enjoying winters in Florida and lake life in Michigan.

John's life was marked by dedication to his family, friends, and community. He was a faithful member of Saint Catherine of Siena Church in Portage for 57 years. It is this faith that provided him strength and comfort throughout his years. John was also passionate about all sports. He could often be found diving for balls on the tennis court, slamming into the garage door while playing basketball with his kids, or striving for birdies on the golf course. He coached all his children during their younger years; also serving as a role model and mentor for many others.

In his retirement, he loved watching his grandchildren compete and perform in academics, athletics, dance, and music. John especially cherished fall Friday nights cheering on Portage Northern Football, always with Mary Pat by his side.

John is survived by his loving wife, Mary Pat Schermerhorn; his children: Jack (Donna) Schermerhorn, Jim (Sonia) Schermerhorn, Pete (Kelli) Schermerhorn, Tom (Lisa) Schermerhorn, and Katie (Jerry) McDaniel, his grandchildren: Lauren (Will) So and Ev Anderson, Josh (Brooke), Joe, and Sydney Schermerhorn; Samantha, Sara, and Michael Schermerhorn; McKenzie and Jack McDaniel; and great-grandchildren: Blaire, Quinn, and Nash So.

Visitation will be held at : Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, Michigan on Sunday, August 18, from 3:00 - 6:00 PM, with a prayer service at 5:00 PM. A Mass in his memory will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 1150 West Centre Avenue, Portage, Michigan on Monday, August 19 at 12:00 PM, preceded by a visitation at 11:00 AM at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice or the Sam DeKuiper Memorial Fund, c/o State Savings Bank, P.O. Box 5222, Traverse City, MI 49696 or online at samdekuipermemorial.com. This fund provides support for children to overcome financial barriers for entry into youth sports, which John valued so highly. Donate in memory of John

Please share memories of John with his family at www.langelands.com.