John William Mehling

John William Mehling, a venerable soul cherished for his loving nature, kindness, and intelligence, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, in Stevensville, Michigan, completing a remarkable journey of nearly 98 years. Born on December 18, 1927, in Lansing, Michigan, to John and Augusta (Gyenke) Mehling, John was a beacon of light throughout his long and fulfilling life.

John's formative years were spent in Lansing, Michigan, where he attended Maplewood School, Walter French Junior High, and Eastern High School. His enduring love for science led him to Michigan State University, from which he graduated with a degree in Biological Science in 1957. His dedication to his country shone through when he served as a medic in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1950-1953, spending much of his service in Japan.

Upon returning to Lansing, John embarked on a distinguished career with the Michigan Department of Public Health, working in Biological Products from 1957 until his retirement in 1986. John's work ethic and commitment to public health left an indelible mark on the community.

John’s heart found its match when he married Carole (Gustafson) Mehling on August 25, 1973, in Lansing, Michigan. Together, they nurtured a life filled with love and companionship. His family remembers him as a pillar of strength and warmth, always there to offer support and a kind word.

A devout Christian, John embraced his faith and was an active member of several church communities throughout his life, including Bethlehem Lutheran Church, People's Church in Lansing, and most recently Bright Star Tabernacle in Eau Claire. His faith was a cornerstone upon which he built his life, providing solace and purpose.

John demonstrated a passion for nurturing the future generation through his volunteer work with the Big Brothers of Lansing mentorship program. As a positive role model, he dedicated time to mentoring younger men, guiding them with wisdom and compassion.

A man of diverse interests, John found joy in fishing, where the serenity of nature was a source of endless delight. His appreciation for the aesthetic and historic value was evident in his collection of music boxes and antiques. These pastimes provided a window into John's soul, which was as complex and beautiful as the melodies of his cherished music boxes.

Preceded in death by his parents, John and Augusta Mehling, and his sisters, Elsie and Esther, John's legacy will continue to thrive through his loving wife, Carole Mehling, four nieces: Linda Fredenburg, Patty Frekies, Sharon Guile, and Amy McCully, and great nieces and nephews Maranda Erickson, Dannielle Larivaux, Brenden Plantinga, and Zach McCully. Special friends Greg and Judi Arnt, Phyllis Hall, and a host of friends from the church. John's enduring impact on those who knew him will be felt for generations to come especially those at Pine Ridge Nursing Home who cared for him.

John William Mehling lived a life brimming with purpose, love, and thoughtfulness. His absence will be profoundly felt, but the cherished memories he leaves behind will linger in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in John’s honor and memory to Bright Star Tabernacle Church of Eau Claire, Michigan.

A funeral service will be held at Bright Star Tabernacle in Eau Claire on Friday December 12 at 12:00 PM. A time of visitation will be held the hour before the service. A luncheon will follow the service at the church. Burial will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Sodus, Michigan.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bowerman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Eau Claire, Michigan