John Lester Conrad

John Lester Conrad, 47, of Elk Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on March 22, 2025, in Big Sky, Montana while on spring break with his family. John was born on August 5, 1977, in Lansing, Michigan, to Roger Allen and Shelia Mae (Brannon) Conrad. He graduated from Waverly High School in 1996 and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from Western Michigan University. It was in college that John met the love of his life, Erin Elizabeth Dempsey, and the couple married on July 17, 2004. Together, they were raising two wonderful children, Madelyn and Reid. John was known for his intelligence, generosity, and unwavering willingness to help others. As an entrepreneur deeply involved in the Elk Rapids area, he played a vital role in the community. He was the fourth-generation owner of Voneda Place on Elk Lake, co-owner of Chef Chuck’s Restaurant, general manager of the Elk Rapids Marina, and a dedicated civic supporter of Elk Rapids for many years. In his spare time, John enjoyed golfing and boating, passions he shared with his family. He had a particular fondness for the Fourth of July, considering it his favorite holiday, even above Christmas. A dedicated fan of Michigan State University, John loved cheering on the Spartans and never missed an opportunity to support his team, whether it was watching a game with friends or making trips to East Lansing. As an active member of the First Presbyterian Church, John served as an officer and cherished his church family. Above all John was a fantastic husband, the best dad, a great son, a devoted friend, and an amazing human being. He will be deeply missed by his wife Erin, children Madelyn and Reid, his mother Shelia, siblings Matthew (Anne) and Mary (Jeremy) Jestila, his mother- and father-in-law, Jane and Jim Dempsey, his brother-in-law Adam (Kate) Dempsey, several nieces and nephews, and so many other loving family members, his friends, community members and his beloved Golden Doodle, Piper. He was preceded in death by his father Roger. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church in Elk Rapids, Michigan. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 AM at the church. Please share your thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. John’s legacy of kindness, leadership, and community spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.

John Lester Conrad

August 5, 1977 - March 22, 2025