John Herbert Stephenson passed on to eternal life on February 10, 2023, on his 73rd birthday. John was predeceased by his father David and his twin brother, Michael. John is survived by his wife of over forty years, Linda (Mills); daughter Caroline (Greg) Haugen, son Michael (Rachael Sherman) Stephenson; and beloved granddaughter, Eleanor. He also leaves behind his mother, Carol; his brother Mark (Regina) Stephenson; sister Julie (Jonathan) Grant; and numerous family and friends.

John was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and walking through the woods. Most mornings he could be found drinking an enormous cup of coffee on the deck while deer wandered through the yard. He described those as his "moments with God." John had a strong faith most of his life. He also enjoyed woodworking, watching old westerns and the Little Rascals, listening to his favorite music by artists such as Johnny Horton, The Moody Blues, and Celine Dion, and being a dad.

As a stay-at-home dad, John was responsible for getting the kids to practices, girl scouts, boy scouts, and more. He easily made friends with other parents and was well-known around the ice rink. During hockey games he could be found in the stands causing a ruckus, screaming, "Let's go, Hurricane!" (a nickname he gave to Michael). His overwhelming support of his children continued as they became adults.

John was proud to be a veteran of the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War. He wore his Vietnam Veteran's hat wherever he went and would beam when thanked for his service. He was honored to have his name etched in brick at the Traverse City Veteran's Memorial and attended many Memorial Day services in remembrance of his fellow veterans.

Friends and family will always remember John as a kind, soft spoken man who loved to bring a laugh. A celebration of life will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth Street, Traverse City, MI 49684. Under the auspices of the United States Army and the Veteran's Honor Guard, full military honors will be presented. There will be a time of visitation one hour prior to the service and a reception to follow.

Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to the Grand Traverse Area Veterans Coalition, P.O. Box 5315, Traverse City, Michigan 49696