John T.H. Preston, 72, of Hopkins, died Friday, July 1, at his home.He was born on Oct. 1, 1943, in Birmingham, England, the son of Harry and Jean (Fillery) Preston. John came to the U.S. from England, found the love of his life, Susie, and they married on Dec. 26, 1966 at the United Methodist Church in Allegan, celebrating almost 50 years together. Together they had a son, Tom, and thoroughly enjoyed being a family and making memories through the years.
John spent more than 12 years as a dairy farmer. He went on to become a mechanical engineer, which led to his job as a field service engineer, working for SCM Group out of Italy, for more than 30 years. Spare time was spent gardening, taking pictures or watching old western movies on TV. He also had a knack for fixing anything that needed fixing.
Diagnosed with aggressive cancer two years ago, John maintained a very positive, go for it attitude, continued to love life, his family and worked right up to the end.
John is survived by his wife, Susie; their son, Tom and Pam Preston; six grandchildren: Thomas and Kayla, Zachery and Anthony, Cassandra, Sabrina, Corey, and Fallon; three great-grandchildren: Shelbie, Dailynn, and Braeden.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Bobbie; one sister, Ann; and one great-grandson, Jaxon.
Friends may meet with the family for a Celebration of Life gathering from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 6, at Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John’s name to West Michigan, 200 North Park St., Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (www.wmcc.org).
