TRAVERSE CITY — John Frederixon, 74, of Traverse City, died suddenly on Thursday, May 12. John was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He graduated from Purdue University with Highest Distinction. In 1967, he moved to Traverse City to open Heritage Pharmacy. He loved the area so much he never left, owning several different pharmacies during his life. In his later years, John assisted his wife with her store, The Ben Franklin. He had a heart of gold, always willing to lend a helping hand. He also enjoyed biking, gardening, attending classic car shows and spending time with his grandchildren. John will be missed by his loving wife of 54 years, Betty; his beloved dog, Bobbi; his children, Michael, of DeWitt, and Debra, of Emerald Hills, Calif.; their spouses and his four grandchildren. The funeral for John will be held on Tuesday, May 17, 2011, at 4 p.m., at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers and to honor John's love of the community, memorial contributions can be made to the Tart Trails at www.traversetrails.org/donation/ , to Munson Hospice House or to the Gift of Life. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and condolences with the family. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.