John Church, of Interlochen, Michigan, passed away on May 4, 2021.

John was born in Saginaw, Michigan, in 1938, and spent his childhood in Midland. He received his education at Michigan Tech, Western Michigan University, and Cranbrook Academy of Art, with an emphasis in metalworking and jewelry making. John was stationed in Korea during his service in the Army.

A longtime instructor in the Visual Arts department at Interlochen Arts Academy, John was known for his creative teaching and unique sense of humor. His students went on to have careers in the arts, ranging from jewelry making to automotive design. An accomplished artist in his own right, John's jewelry and metalwork were featured in galleries and art fairs throughout Michigan. When not teaching or making art, his hobbies included walking the Lake Michigan shoreline, birdwatching, gardening, and shooting his beloved muzzleloader rifles.

He is survived by his son Bill Church, his grandchildren Marguerite and Nicolas, his brother Collyer, and his sister Suzanne. A service to celebrate John's life will be held on Saturday, June 12th, at 3:00 in Kresge Auditorium on Interlochen's campus. In lieu of donations or flowers, please plant a tree in his honor.